Platelet function of whole blood after short-term cold storage: A prospective in vitro observational study

BackgroundThere is no standardized storage temperature of whole blood for acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH). Study Design and MethodsWe conducted a prospective observational study to examine the difference in platelet function between short-term whole blood storage at 4 and 22 degrees C. Venous blood (40 ml) was collected from seven healthy subjects who gave prior written consent. The samples were divided into three groups: before storage (group Pre), cold (4 degrees C) storage (group C), and room temperature (22 degrees C) storage (group R). Groups C and R were tested after 6 h of blood storage. Platelet aggregability, platelet factor 4 (PF4), beta-thromboglobulin (beta-TG), P-selectin expression, pH, PO2, PCO2, glucose, lactate, blood count, and thromboelastography (TEG) parameters were measured. The percentage change in each parameter in groups C and R was calculated using the value in group Pre as a reference. These data were then compared between groups C and R using a Wilcoxon matched pairs test. p < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. ResultsCompared with group R, group C showed significantly higher platelet aggregability with adenosine diphosphate (ADP) 2, 4, and 6 mu M (all p = 0.016) and collagen 1 mu g/ml (p = 0.047) stimulation, and significantly lower PF4 and beta-TG elevation (both p = 0.031), glucose consumption (p = 0.031), and lactate production (p = 0.016). The ADP channel in TEG showed a significant increase in platelet aggregation rate in group C compared to group R. DiscussionCold storage of whole blood in ANH may provide improved storage conditions for platelets and contribute to improved hemostasis compared to room temperature storage.