Inability to Reverse Aspirin and Clopidogrel-induced Platelet Dysfunction with Platelet Infusion

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine
• Trauma Care

Background:

• Platelets are transfused to trauma patients to counteract anti-platelet drugs.
• Current U.S. blood bank practices store platelets at room temperature.
• Research suggests refrigerated platelets might improve function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if refrigerated platelets are superior to room temperature platelets in reversing aspirin and clopidogrel-induced platelet dysfunction.
• To evaluate the efficacy of autologous platelet transfusion in reversing anti-platelet effects.

Main Methods:

• A crossover design study involving 10 healthy subjects.
• Subjects received aspirin and clopidogrel, followed by autologous platelets stored at either 4°C or room temperature.
• In vivo platelet function was assessed by bleeding times.

Main Results:

• Anti-platelet drug administration significantly increased bleeding times.
• Platelet reinfusion did not return bleeding times to normal ranges.
• No significant difference in platelet function restoration was observed between refrigerated and room temperature stored platelets.

Conclusions:

• Autologous platelet transfusion is ineffective in reversing aspirin and clopidogrel-induced platelet dysfunction.
• Cold-stored platelets offer no advantage over room temperature-stored platelets for restoring platelet function in this context.