Unusual Icteric Discoloration of Single Donor Platelets in Platelet Additive Solution With Container Staining: A Rare...

Area of Science:

• Transfusion Medicine
• Hematology
• Blood Component Processing

Background:

• Platelet additive solution (PAS) is used to extend the storage of platelet concentrates.
• Visual inspection is a primary method for assessing blood component quality.
• Icteric discoloration in blood products is typically associated with hemolysis or liver dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report an unusual case of icteric discoloration in an apheresis platelet (AP) unit.
• To investigate the cause of the discoloration and its impact on platelet quality.
• To discuss the implications for blood banking practices.

Main Methods:

• Case report of an AP unit with icteric discoloration and bag staining.
• Sterile cultures and initial platelet morphology assessment.
• Donor evaluation including bilirubin levels.
• Platelet function testing over storage.

Main Results:

• The AP unit showed marked icteric discoloration and bag staining despite sterile cultures and preserved initial morphology.
• Donor evaluation revealed mild unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia.
• Platelet function was reduced by Day 5 of storage.
• Donor-derived pigments were implicated as the source of discoloration.

Conclusions:

• Icteric appearance in PAS-suspended platelets, though rare, can indicate donor-related pigment transfer.
• This case suggests current visual inspection methods may not detect all quality issues.
• Reevaluation of acceptance criteria for blood components is warranted.