Platelet transfusion

Platelet transfusion

A bag of platelets
Clinical data
ATC code	B05A (WHO)
Identifiers

Platelet transfusion, also known as platelet concentrate, is used to treat or prevent bleeding in people with either a low platelet count or poor platelet function. Often this occurs in people receiving cancer chemotherapy. Preventative transfusion is often done in those with platelet levels of less than 10 x 10⁹/L. In those who are bleeding transfusion is typically carried out at less than 50 x 10⁹/L. Cross matching is typically required before platelets are given. They are given by injection into a vein.

Side effects can include allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis, infection, and lung injury. Bacterial infections are relatively more common with platelets as they are stored at warmer temperatures. Platelets can be gotten either from whole blood or by apheresis. They keep for up to five to seven days.

Platelet transfusions came into medical use in the 1950s and 1960s. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. In the United Kingdom it costs the NHS about 200 pounds per unit. Some versions of platelets have had the white blood cells partially removed or been gamma irradiated which have specific benefits for certain populations.