Platelet transfusion

Q: How long does it take for platelet count to rise post-transfusion? - select one

A) 10 minutes

B) 20 minutes

C) 30 minutes

Answer: A

Although transfusing only apheresis platelets is now more conventional than whole body-derived (WBD) platelets, the effect is almost comparable.

Four to six WBD platelets or one apheresis unit, which is standard to transfuse as prophylaxis to prevent bleeding due to thrombocytopenia, provides about 3 to 4 × 1011unit platelets. This platelet dose transfusion approximately raises platelet count by 30,000/microL within 10 minutes of infusion. 

For prophylaxis, one-time transfusion per day is enough. The Association for the Advancement of Blood and Biotherapies (AABB) states, "Greater doses are not more effective, and lower doses are equally effective."

#hematology

#transfusion-medicine

References:

1. Slichter SJ, Kaufman RM, Assmann SF, et al. Dose of prophylactic platelet transfusions and prevention of hemorrhage. N Engl J Med 2010; 362:600.

2. Kaufman RM, Djulbegovic B, Gernsheimer T, et al. Platelet transfusion: a clinical practice guideline from the AABB. Ann Intern Med 2015; 162:205.