Platelet floaties

[suhu]

We purchase pre-pooled platelets. Lately we've been noticing units with noticable particulate matter, usually resembling small fibrin strands. Most of the units have adequate swirl. Anyone know if these units are suitable for transfusion?

[heathervaught]

I would discuss with your medical director and your supplier's medical director to come to a consensus. As a biological product, I expect some aggregation to occur over time. However, excessive, large, or persistent platelet clumps could be a sign of a process problem by the supplier. If your MD does decide to transfuse, then you can be assured that the administration set filter will trap the aggregates.