Alteration in biochemical parameters during plateletpheresis in healthy donors: A compendious analysis

Kanika Garg1, Paramjit Kaur1, Ravneet Kaur Bedi1

  • 1Department of Transfusion Medicine, Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32-B, 160030 Chandigarh, India.

Insights

Plateletpheresis significantly reduces calcium and magnesium levels in donors, potentially causing hypocalcemic reactions. Monitoring these biochemical changes is crucial for donor safety and managing adverse events.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Hematology
  • Transfusion Medicine

Background:

  • Plateletpheresis utilizes citrate anticoagulant, which can lead to transient hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia.
  • These electrolyte disturbances may cause discomfort and adverse reactions in healthy donors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the impact of citrate infusion during plateletpheresis on various biochemical parameters in healthy donors.
  • To correlate observed biochemical changes with the incidence and severity of adverse donor reactions.

Main Methods:

  • Sixty healthy plateletpheresis donors were enrolled.
  • Blood samples were collected at baseline, 30 minutes into the procedure, and 30 minutes post-procedure.
  • Measurements included total calcium, ionized calcium, serum magnesium, parathyroid hormone, total protein, and serum albumin.

Main Results:

  • Significant decreases in total calcium, ionized calcium, serum magnesium, total protein, and serum albumin were observed.
  • Parathyroid hormone levels significantly increased from baseline to procedure completion.
  • Hypocalcemic reactions were the most common adverse events, particularly with Amicus double yield apheresis, and were managed with calcium supplementation.

Conclusions:

  • Plateletpheresis causes substantial reductions in serum calcium and magnesium levels.
  • The significant increase in parathyroid hormone warrants further investigation.
  • Declines in total protein and albumin may be a consideration for donors undergoing concurrent plasmapheresis.
Abstract