Q: Platelets are stored at (Select best)

A) room temperature
B) 4 degree centigrade
C) Ice cold deep freezer
D) At warmer temperature than room temperature


Answer: A 

Platelets are stored at room temperature. This is to prevent clustering of von Willebrand factor receptors on the platelet surface due to cold temperature. This decreases the shelf life of platelets to only 5 days as after that chances of bacterial growth is high.



Reference: 

Murphy S, Gardner FH. Effect of storage temperature on maintenance of platelet viability--deleterious effect of refrigerated storage. N Engl J Med 1969; 280:1094.