Enumeration of previously frozen platelets using the Coulter Counter, phase microscopy, and the technicon optical...

The Coulter Counter, phase microscopy, and the Technicon optical system were used to enumerate platelets in samples of whole blood, platelet-rich plasma, platelet concentrates before and after addition of DMSO, and on platelet concentrates that had been frozen, thawed, and washed. We observed agreement among the three counting methods when platelet counts were determined in whole blood, platelet-rich plasma, and platelet concentrate before and after DMSO addition. Enumeration after the cryopreservation process, however, showed highly significant differences among the counting systems. Platelet counts on platelet concentrates after freezing the thawing performed with the Coulter Counter were 25 per cent greater than with phase microscopy and 55 per cent greater than with Technicon. Counts with phase microscopy were 30 per cent greater than Technicon values. These data indicate that the method used to enumerate previously frozen platelets affects the apparent platelet count.