Effect on Haemostatic Proteins in Plasma Prepared from Fresh and Overnight Stored Whole Blood

ABSTRACT

@#Introduction: Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is prepared within 8-10 hours after collection to ensure preservation of coagulation factors however, adherence to this time is a challenge. Extended processing time is an option to overcome it. This study was done to evaluate haemostatic proteins after extended time. Methods: Blood collected from a mobile donation centre was divided into three (3) groups before processed into plasma. Group 1 (n=42) was prepared within 8 hours post collection. Group 2 (n=42) was prepared after overnight and stored at room temperature. Group 3 (n=42) was prepared after overnight but stored at 2-6⁰C. Plasma haemostatic proteins were measured in all groups and mean activity of each level was compared using One-way ANOVA. Results: There was no reduction in all the haemostatic proteins in plasma prepared from overnight storage (Groups 2 and 3) compared to Group 1 except for Factors VIII and V whilst PT was not significantly prolonged. aPTT was significantly prolonged in both Groups 2 and 3 compared to Group 1. There were 25.7% and 35.2% reduction of Factor VIII levels in Groups 2 and 3 respectively, however levels were above 60%. There is 8.7% reduction in Factor V level but the mean factor activity was above 90%. Comparing Groups 2 and 3, there was no significant difference in activity of all haemostatic proteins. Conclusions: Haemostatic proteins are preserved in plasma prepared from blood stored overnight. Prolongation of the APTT is reflected by reduction in Factor VIII activity but still within the normal reference range.