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Treatment of Platelet Products with Riboflavin and UV Light: Effectiveness Against High Titer Bacterial Contamination
Published on: August 24, 2015
Bacterial contamination of platelets
Elizabeth L Palavecino1, Roslyn A Yomtovian, Michael R Jacobs
1Department of Pathology, Wake Forest University Medical School, Winston-Salem, NC, USA. epalave@wfubmc.edu
Abstract:
Bacterial contamination of platelet products, both single donor apheresis platelet units and whole blood-derived platelet pools, continues to occur despite preventive measures. While some advances have been made in decreasing the rate of bacterial contamination of platelet units, particularly through diversion methods and early culture, a great deal remains to be done to eliminate the problem. Diversion methods have decreased contamination rates associated with skin commensal organisms. Culture methods are now widely used and many at-issue detection methods have been developed or are undergoing development. This article reviews the current developments and the challenges that remain to minimize and detect bacterial contamination of platelet products.
Insights
Bacterial contamination in platelet products remains a concern. Advances in diversion and culture methods reduce risks, but further strategies are needed to fully eliminate this issue in blood products.
Area of Science:
- Transfusion Medicine
- Microbiology
- Hematology
Background:
- Bacterial contamination of platelet products (apheresis and whole blood-derived) persists despite existing preventive measures.
- Skin commensal organisms are a common source of contamination, necessitating targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current developments in minimizing and detecting bacterial contamination in platelet products.
- To identify remaining challenges in ensuring the safety of platelet transfusions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing and emerging diversion techniques for platelet collection.
- Analysis of current and developing bacterial culture and detection methods for platelet products.
- Assessment of strategies to mitigate contamination risks.
Main Results:
- Diversion methods have shown success in reducing contamination rates, particularly from skin flora.
- Widespread adoption of culture methods and ongoing development of new detection assays are improving safety.
- Complete elimination of bacterial contamination remains an unresolved challenge.
Conclusions:
- While progress has been made, bacterial contamination of platelet products requires continued research and implementation of advanced strategies.
- A multi-faceted approach combining improved collection, detection, and prevention is crucial for enhancing patient safety.
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