[Thrombocyte transfusion. Indications, side effects and problems]

The transfusion of platelet concentrates now represents one of the most common therapeutic measures employed in transfusion medicine. In particular the development of new, aggressive forms of chemotherapy has rapidly increased the need for platelet concentrates over the last few years. The aim of the present study is to describe the major indications and discuss briefly the side effects and problems associated with the transfusion of platelet concentrates.