Platelet transfusions

Definition

Platelet transfusions are a medical procedure in which platelets, a component of blood crucial for clotting, are infused into a patient to prevent or treat bleeding. This is especially important in individuals with low platelet counts due to conditions like leukemia, chemotherapy, or certain hemostatic disorders. By increasing the number of platelets in circulation, transfusions help restore the body’s ability to stop bleeding effectively.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Platelet transfusions are commonly used for patients undergoing chemotherapy, as these treatments can significantly reduce platelet production in the bone marrow.
2. The standard dosage for platelet transfusion is typically expressed in 'units,' with one unit generally raising the platelet count by 30,000 to 60,000 cells per microliter of blood.
3. Transfusions are often matched based on blood type to minimize the risk of transfusion reactions, but platelets can be given from different donors if necessary.
4. Risks associated with platelet transfusions include allergic reactions, fever, and transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI), though these are relatively rare.
5. Patients receiving repeated transfusions may develop antibodies against donor platelets, which can complicate future transfusions and require special matching strategies.

Review Questions

• How do platelet transfusions help manage thrombocytopenia in patients undergoing chemotherapy?
  • Platelet transfusions provide an immediate source of platelets for patients with thrombocytopenia, a condition often caused by chemotherapy that reduces bone marrow function. By increasing the platelet count, these transfusions help prevent excessive bleeding during treatment. This is vital because low platelet levels can lead to serious complications, including spontaneous bleeding and increased risk during surgical procedures.
• Discuss the potential complications that can arise from platelet transfusions and how healthcare providers mitigate these risks.
  • Potential complications from platelet transfusions include allergic reactions, fever, and more serious risks like transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI). Healthcare providers mitigate these risks by conducting thorough pre-transfusion assessments, using leukoreduced platelets to reduce febrile reactions, and monitoring patients closely during and after the transfusion. Education on recognizing signs of allergic reactions or other complications is also crucial for patient safety.
• Evaluate the importance of proper matching and donor screening in platelet transfusions for patients with recurrent needs due to chronic conditions.
  • Proper matching and donor screening are critical for patients who require recurrent platelet transfusions due to chronic conditions like leukemia or aplastic anemia. This is because repeated exposure to donor platelets can lead to sensitization, resulting in the development of antibodies against future donations. These antibodies can complicate subsequent transfusions, making it challenging to find compatible donors. As a result, careful screening and matching practices help ensure that patients receive effective treatment while minimizing potential adverse reactions.

Related terms

Thrombocytopenia:

A condition characterized by abnormally low levels of platelets in the blood, leading to increased risk of bleeding.

Coagulation Cascade: A complex series of events involving proteins in the blood that leads to the formation of a blood clot.

Hemostasis:

The process that prevents and stops bleeding, involving vascular constriction, platelet plug formation, and blood clotting.