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[Effect of leukocyte contamination on storage of platelet concentrates from buffy coats]
H Klüter1, M Klinger, M Bauhaus
1Institut für Immunologie und Transfusionsmedizin, Medizinischen Universität zu Lübeck, Deutschland.
Abstract:
We examined the effect of white cell contamination on thrombocytes prepared from pooled buffy coats over a storage period of 8 days. Using this novel technique, a leukocyte depletion filter can be easily integrated during PC preparation. In a paired study (n = 14) eight ABO-identical BC were pooled in a 2-liter PVC bag within 8 h after whole-blood donation, thoroughly mixed and divided into two identical fractions. After soft-spin centrifugation the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was transferred either (fraction A) using a leukocyte filter (PL 50-HF, Pall) or (fraction B) directly into the storage bag (Pl-732, Baxter), and stored under routine conditions. On days 1, 3, 5, and 8, aliquots of PC were withdrawn for determination of cell count and different biochemical parameters and for morphometric analyses of platelet ultrastructure by electron microscopy. Results showed a lower thrombocyte yield and white cell count (p < 0.01) in fraction A (268 x 10(9) vs. 240 x 10(9); 51.1 x 10(6) vs. 0.04 x 10(6)), whereas no differences between the preparations could be detected by analysis of pH, pCO2, bicarbonate, and in LDH release over the storage period of 8 days. These results were supported in the study on the ultrastructural level where a good morphological integrity of the platelets was observed during the whole storage period in both fractions. In conclusion, storage lesions on platelets due to leukocyte effects are unlikely to occur in PC with white cell counts lower than 10(8)/l.
Insights
Leukocyte depletion filters effectively reduce white cell contamination in platelet preparations, preserving platelet quality during storage. This method ensures platelet integrity, minimizing potential storage lesions.
Area of Science:
- Transfusion Medicine
- Hematology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- White cell contamination in platelet concentrates (PCs) can impact product quality and patient outcomes.
- Current methods for leukocyte reduction are varied, with a need for efficient integration into preparation workflows.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a leukocyte depletion filter integrated during platelet-rich plasma (PRP) preparation.
- To assess the impact of reduced white cell counts on platelet yield, biochemical parameters, and ultrastructure during storage.
Main Methods:
- A paired study design compared PRP processed with a leukocyte filter (fraction A) versus direct processing (fraction B).
- Platelet concentrates were stored for 8 days, with analysis of cell counts, biochemical markers (pH, pCO2, bicarbonate, LDH), and platelet ultrastructure via electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- Fraction A showed significantly lower white cell counts (p < 0.01) compared to fraction B.
- No significant differences were observed in pH, pCO2, bicarbonate, or LDH release between the two fractions over the 8-day storage period.
- Electron microscopy confirmed good morphological integrity of platelets in both fractions throughout storage.
Conclusions:
- Leukocyte depletion filters are effective in reducing white cell contamination during PC preparation.
- Storage lesions in platelets attributed to leukocyte effects are unlikely in PCs with white cell counts below 10^8/L.
- Integrated leukocyte depletion offers a viable method for improving platelet concentrate quality.