ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate, in vitro, the effects of collecting and cryopreserving fresh dry platelet concentrates (PCs). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Standard and dry PCs were collected in the same apheresis procedure. PCs were evaluated by mean platelet volume (MPV), pH, glucose and LDH levels. Activation was examined by flow cytometry using anti-CD41, anti-CD42 and anti-CD62p monoclonal antibodies and annexin binding assay. Platelet function was assessed by aggregation using ADP, collagen and arachidonic acid as agonists. Dry PCs were compared to standard PCs and to cryopreserved dry PCs. We also compared the use of ThromboSol to 5% DMSO as cryoprotectives. RESULTS: Dry PCs presented a significantly reduced pH and glucose (p<0.001), increased LDH levels and CD62p expression (p<0.001) and diminished aggregation response to ADP (p<0.001). Platelet cryopreservation was associated with platelet lysis, activation and loss of function. Dry PCs cryopreserved with TS were associated with statistically higher LDH levels (p<0.001) and a higher percentage of annexin binding (p=0.005), in addition to a lower number of CD42 positive platelets (p=0.01). CONCLUSION: Dry PCs should be rapidly frozen after collection to avoid a fall in pH and platelet activation. 5% DMSO performed better than TS to cryopreserve dry PCs.