Update on the use of pathogen-reduced human plasma and platelet concentrates

The use of pathogen reduction technologies (PRTs) for labile blood components is slowly but steadily increasing. While pathogen-reduced plasma is already used routinely, efficacy and safety concerns impede the widespread use of pathogen-reduced platelets. The supportive and often prophylactic nature of blood component therapy in a variety of clinical situations complicates the clinical evaluation of these novel blood products. However, an increasing body of evidence on the clinical efficacy, safety, cost-benefit ratio and development of novel technologies suggests that pathogen reduction has entered a stage of maturity that could further increase the safety margin in haemotherapy. This review summarizes the clinical evidence on PRTs for plasma and platelet products that are currently licensed or under development.