[Thrombocyte concentrate infusions--a study of the frequency of contamination and its clinical significance]

Three hundred and twenty-four samples from platelet concentrate bags were examined for bacterial contamination. Blood cultures were made when platelet transfusion was followed by pyrexia to examine the frequency of platelet transfusion-induced septicemia. 6.5% of samples showed bacterial growth, mostly ordinary skin flora, but other bacteria were also demonstrated. Pyrexia followed 14% of the transfusion episodes, and in 58% of the febrile episodes this was associated with bacterial contamination of the bag. In one episode of post-transfusion pyrexia the same bacteria were found in cultures from both bag and blood. The case is presented here. Sources of bacterial contamination of platelet preparations are discussed. The use of platelet concentrates in treatment of thrombocytopenic patients is so important that the demonstrated rate of contamination does not alter the indication for platelet transfusion. Nevertheless, when platelet transfusion is followed by pyrexia, cultures from the bag and patient's blood should be performed to establish etiology and relevant antibiotic treatment.