Abstract
Platelet transfusions are effective in the control of hemorrhages in thrombocytopenic patients with acute leukemia. They are especially valuable as a supportive measure during intensive chemotherapy.
The need for exceedingly large amounts of blood and the possibility of immune reactions to multiple platelet transfusion are thought to be major obstacle in the routine use of platelet transfusion.
Highly concentrated platelet rich plasma from ACD treated blood was obtained from a patient with thrombocythemia by means of closed system of plastic bags. Five patients with acute leukemia who had marked thrombocytopenia and severe hemorrhagic manifestation were given concentrated platelets in dose ranging from 4.2 to 21.7×1011/m2.
Espistaxis, gingival bleeding and melena were arrested following administration of fresh platelet in all of 5 patients, associated with increased platelet levels up to 30,000 platelet/cu mm. or more.
Availability and usefulness of large amounts of platelet from such donor as a patient with thrombocythemia will permit the administration of intensive chemotherapeutic agents in amounts many times greater than the conventional dose.
