[Evaluation of a noninvasive method for storage control of platelet concentrates]

We evaluated a system for storage of platelet concentrates (PC) which is thought to monitor the platelet function during storage by measuring the light transmission (Plateguard). Platelet function, morphology and metabolism altered during storage as usually. But the alterations did not correlate to light transmission. Only PC with very strong changes and final pH lower than 6.0 (4 of 59) showed different light transmission (exponential curves). Nevertheless the Plateguard can detect these unsuitable PCs if the software would be modified as proposed. In addition, several technical improvements are necessary before routine use.