Platelet transfusion

Features

1. Transfusion should be type specific b/c platelets are bathed in plasma
   1. Non-type specific plts can be used but results in higher rate of complications
2. Like pRBCs, plts can be leukocyte reduced or washed

Indications

1. Plt count <10K in asymptomatic patients (unless due to ITP, TTP, or HIT)
2. Plt count <15K with a coagulation disorder or minor bleeding
3. Plt count <20K with major bleeding
4. Plt count <50K with need for invasive procedure or surgery
5. Plt count <100K with need for neurologic or cardiac surgery

Dose

1. 1 unit raises count by 50K

See Also

• Transfusions
• Thrombocytopenia

Source

Tintinalli