Giant Platelets in Platelet Donors - A Blessing in Disguise?

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine

Background:

• Inherited giant platelet disorders (IGPD) are rare but likely underdiagnosed.
• Harris platelet syndrome, an IGPD common in the Indian subcontinent, presents with low platelet count, high mean platelet volume (MPV), and no bleeding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of giant platelets in single donor platelet (SDP) apheresis donors.
• To evaluate the impact of transfusing SDPs from donors with giant platelets into patients.

Main Methods:

• Screening of 45 voluntary SDP donors using complete blood count and peripheral smear.
• Platelet counts and yield were assessed post-apheresis.
• Transfusion of SDPs and monitoring of post-transfusion platelet recovery in patients.

Main Results:

• Giant platelets were found in 66.67% (30/45) of screened donors.
• Donors with giant platelets had lower pre-procedure platelet counts and platelet yield compared to others.
• Post-transfusion platelet recovery was higher in patients receiving SDPs from donors with giant platelets.

Conclusions:

• Giant platelets are prevalent in Eastern India.
• Peripheral smear examination is crucial for screening apheresis donors to avoid misinterpreting low platelet counts due to giant platelets.
• This screening can prevent donor rejection and optimize platelet transfusion efficacy.