EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE ON FUNCTIONAL-RESPONSE OF PLATELET CONCENTRATESSTORED IN PVC BAGS

Haemostatic efficacy of platelet concentrates prepared and stored in l ocally available PVC triple bags was compared against a Japanese bag. In vitro functional parameters studied included shape change, aggregat ion and secretion in response to ADP. We have observed remarkable diff erence in the aggregatory response of platelets stored at slightly var ying temperatures. The stimulatory responses of platelets stored with constant agitation at 70 strokes per min and 23+/-2 degrees C, deterio rated drastically by the time platelets were stored for 48 h. Both the rate and the extent of aggregation were affected showing no response to ADP at 72 h. However, when platelets were stored in a BOD incubator , thermostated at 22+/-0.5 degrees C, with continuous horizontal agita tion at 70 strokes per min, 50 per cent functional response was retain ed till 72 h. We also demonstrated fragmentation of platelet membrane during storage. The membrane fragments collected bq. high speed centri fugation, expressed PF3 activity. Shedding of microvesicles indicates alterations at the membrane level that possibly cause functional lesio n during storage. Our data suggest the significance of controlling the storage temperature steadily, to get maximum post transfusion efficac y.