INFLUENCE OF COLD-STORAGE ALTERED RED-CELL SURFACE ON THE FUNCTION OFPLATELETS

In previous studies, we have shown that in the hemoocclusive crisis of sickle cell disease, red blood cells (RBC) develop reversible membran e changes which may represent a thrombogenic surface for platelets. As a result there is platelet activation and platelet derived procoagula nt activity. Platelet activation is also enhanced when platelets come into contact with stored RBC in comparison with freshly obtained red b lood cells from normal individuals. Pentoxifylline (P, Trental (R)), a trisubstituted xanthine derivative, acts on the red cell membrane and decreases its effect on platelet activation. In addition, it may have direct platelet aggregation inhibitory effects. By decreasing red cel l ''stiffness'', it may also increase the circulating life span of sto red red blood cells. It it suggested that pentoxifylline may be explor ed as an additive in the preservation of RBC.