[Quality control of platelet concentrates: experience of Sousse (Tunisia) blood centre]

The aim of this prospective study was to control the quality of platelet concentrates prepared in Sousse blood centre: standard platelet concentrates (SPC) and apheresis platelet concentrates (APC) in order to detect anomalies and apply corrections. The quality control included three parameters: pH, volume, cells count: platelets, residual white blood cells (WBC) and red blood cells (RBC). The SPC pH was measured with pH meter, samples were obtained at the end of shelf-life by the destructive method. The control of SPC cells count was determined with a Beckman coulter, samples were collected by the stripping method. The APC quality control was assessed in the same conditions than those described for SPC but samples were collected by the transfer method. Quality control results were compared to Europe standards. During a period of six months (July-December 2002), 475 SPC (16% of the production) and 36 APC (60% of the production) were controlled. More than 95% of the SPC meet standards in regard to pH, volume and residual WBC count. However, the number of platelets and residual RBC meet standards respectively in 58% and 42% of SPC. All the APC meet standards for the three quality parameters. In conclusion, in order to improve the quality of our SPC, in regard to the number of platelets and residual RBC, two actions are respectively necessary to satisfy requirements: collecting the appropriate volume of whole blood and controlling the separation technique.