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Ex Vivo Red Blood Cell Hemolysis Assay for the Evaluation of pH-responsive Endosomolytic Agents for Cytosolic Delivery of Biomacromolecular Drugs
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Potassium content of irradiated packed red blood cells in different storage media: is there a need for additive

H El Kenz1, F Corazza, P Van Der Linden

  • 1Brugmann University Hospital Centre, Queen Fabiola University Children Hospital Blood Bank, Brussels, Belgium.

Transfusion and Apheresis Science : Official Journal of the World Apheresis Association : Official Journal of the European Society for Haemapheresis
|May 29, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Gamma irradiation of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) in AS-3 medium increases potassium levels. Irradiated AS-3 PRBCs older than 7 days are not recommended for rapid neonatal transfusions due to TA-GVHD risks.

Area of Science:

  • Transfusion Medicine
  • Blood Banking
  • Neonatal Hematology

Background:

  • Gamma irradiation prevents transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease (TA-GVHD).
  • Irradiation increases supernatant potassium in packed red blood cells (PRBCs) stored in CPDA-1 and SAGM solutions.
  • Data on irradiated PRBCs in AS-3 medium, a neonatal-safe solution, are lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate hemolysis and potassium release from irradiated PRBCs stored in AS-3 medium.
  • To compare these findings with existing data for SAGM and CPDA-1 PRBCs.
  • To inform transfusion guidelines for neonates and infants.

Main Methods:

  • Packed red blood cells (PRBCs) were stored in AS-3 medium.
  • PRBCs were gamma-irradiated.
  • Hemolysis and potassium levels in the supernatant were measured at various time points post-irradiation.
  • Results were compared with published data for PRBCs in SAGM and CPDA-1.

Main Results:

  • Irradiated AS-3 PRBCs showed increased potassium release over time.
  • Potassium levels exceeded safety thresholds for neonatal transfusion after 7 days post-irradiation.
  • Hemolysis levels remained within acceptable limits.

Conclusions:

  • Irradiated PRBCs stored in AS-3 medium for over 7 days post-irradiation pose a risk of hyperkalemia in neonates.
  • These PRBCs should not be used for massive or rapid transfusions in neonates and infants.
  • Further research is needed to optimize storage and irradiation protocols for neonatal transfusions.

Keywords:
AS-3 conservative solutionPacked red blood cellsPotassiumTransfusion-associated graft versus host disease

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