Effect of initial storage at room temperature on human red blood cell ATP, 2,3-DPG, and viability

The concentrations of ATP and 2,3-DPG and post-transfusion viability were measured in human red blood cells exposed for one, four and seven hours to room temperature before refrigerated storage for 21 days. No effect of room temperature storage was observed on ATP or viability. Decrease in 2,3-DPG was accelerated by room temperature exposure but the differences in 2.3-DPG were small and unlikely to have a significant adverse effect on red blood cell oxygen delivery. Delays of up to seven hours in refrigeration of blood do not appear to have serious adverse effects on red blood cell viability or function.