Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026
A Microfluidic Flow Chamber Model for Platelet Transfusion and Hemostasis Measures Platelet Deposition and Fibrin Formation in Real-time
Published on: February 14, 2017
Coagulation function in fresh-frozen plasma prepared with two photochemical treatment methods: methylene blue and
Jean-Claude Osselaer1, Cécile Debry, Maite Goffaux
1Blood Transfusion Center and Laboratory of Hematology, Cliniques Universitaires de Mont Godinne, Université Catholique de Louvain, Yvoir, Belgium. claude.osselaer@sang.ucl.ac.be
Background:
Pathogen inactivation of plasma intended for transfusion is now the standard of care in Belgium. Two methods for treatment of single plasma units are available: amotosalen plus ultraviolet A light and methylene blue plus visible light. This study compared the quality and stability of plasma treated with these two methods.
Study Design And Methods:
Plasma units made from a pool of two ABO-matched fresh apheresis units were photochemically treated with either amotosalen (PCT-FFP) or methylene blue (MB-FFP). A total of 12 paired samples were evaluated. Plasma coagulation function was assessed at three time points: immediately after treatment, after 30 days of frozen storage, and an additional 24 hours at 4 degrees C after thawing. Comparison between PCT-FFP and MB-FFP was assessed with the paired t test and a p value of less than 0.05 indicated statistical significance.
Results:
Based on statistical analysis, mean levels of factor (F)II, FXII, FXIII, von Willebrand antigen, ADAMTS-13, D-dimers, and protein C were equivalent between PCT-FFP and MB-FFP for all three time points. PCT-FFP exhibited shorter mean prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time (two time points), and thrombin time and higher mean levels of fibrinogen, FXI, and protein S than MB-FFP. Retention of FV, FVII, FVIII, FX, or von Willebrand factor:ristocetin cofactor in PCT-FFP was either equivalent to or higher than MB-FFP. MB-FFP contained higher mean levels of plasminogen, antithrombin, and plasmin inhibitor than PCT-FFP. Retention of F IX in MB-FFP was higher than PCT-FFP only after the 4 degrees C storage after thawing.
Conclusion:
There is adequate preservation of therapeutic coagulation factor activities in both PCT-FFP and MB-FFP. The overall coagulation factor levels and stability of PCT-FFP were better preserved than MB-FFP.
