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Published on: January 31, 2018
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Platelet Transfusion Practices in the ICU: A Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study.
Stefan F van Wonderen1, Senta Jorinde Raasveld1,2, Andrew W J Flint3,4
1Department of Intensive Care, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Critical Care Medicine
|September 26, 2025
Summary
Platelet transfusions are given to a small percentage of ICU patients, primarily for bleeding or prophylaxis. Practices and adherence to transfusion thresholds vary significantly across different global economic regions.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Hematology
- Transfusion Medicine
Background:
- International data on platelet transfusion practices in intensive care units (ICUs) is limited.
- Understanding current transfusion rates, indications, and adherence is crucial for optimizing patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the occurrence rate of platelet transfusions in ICUs globally.
- To provide an overview of current platelet transfusion practices, including indications, thresholds, and adherence.
- To analyze variations in these practices across different geo-economic regions.
Main Methods:
- International prospective cohort study involving 233 centers in 30 countries.
- Inclusion of adult patients admitted to the ICU during a designated study week.
- Data collection on platelet transfusion events, indications, pre-transfusion counts, and adherence to thresholds.
Main Results:
- 6% of 3643 ICU patients received platelet transfusions, mainly for active bleeding (42%) or prophylaxis (33%).
- Median pre-transfusion platelet count was 44 × 10^9/L, varying by indication.
- Transfusion thresholds were documented in 51% of cases, with 16% non-adherence; practices differed significantly by geo-economic region.
Conclusions:
- Platelet transfusions are administered to a minority of critically ill patients, primarily for bleeding or prophylaxis.
- Significant variations in platelet transfusion occurrence, indications, and threshold adherence exist across geo-economic regions.
