Hemolysis in In-Date RBC Concentrates

Area of Science:

• Transfusion Medicine
• Hematology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Hemolysis is a critical concern during red blood cell (RBC) liquid storage.
• Previous studies primarily assessed hemolysis at the end of the storage period (day 42).

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the kinetics of hemolysis in RBCs stored in additive solutions (AS-1 and AS-3) throughout the storage period.
• To determine the relationship between storage duration, hematocrit, and hemolysis.

Main Methods:

• Prestorage leukoreduced RBCs in AS-1 and AS-3 were analyzed.
• One group was assessed on day 42, and another group was monitored daily from day 0 to day 40.
• Supernatant hemoglobin and hematocrit were directly measured.

Main Results:

• Mean supernatant hemoglobin was significantly higher in RBCs stored until day 42 (75 ± 100 mg/dL) compared to those stored for shorter durations (25.5 ± 16 mg/dL from day 7-39).
• Supernatant hemoglobin showed a weak correlation with storage age (r = 0.2) but a stronger correlation with hematocrit (r = 0.4).

Conclusions:

• Minimal hemolysis occurs until the final days of RBC liquid storage.
• Elevated hemolysis is observed in some high hematocrit RBC units during the later stages of storage.