Storage of saline-adenine-glucose-mannitol suspended red cells in diethylhexyl phtalate and butyryl-n-trihexyl-citrate plasticized polyvinyl chloride containers. An in vitro comparative study.

Units of whole blood collected into butyryl-n-trihexyl-citrate (BTHC) and diethylhexyl phtalate (DEHP) plasticized polyvinylchloride (PVC) blood storage containers and processed by means of an 'Optipress', which allows automated removal of the buffy coat, were compared. Units collected into standard PVC containers processed by the traditional method (no buffy coat removal) were used as a control group. The red cell concentrates were suspended in saline-adenine-glucose-mannitol (SAGM) and stored 42 days at 2-6 degrees C. Comparison of the buffy coat depleted red cell concentrates showed that red cell energy and oxygen delivery capacity, as evidenced by ATP and 2,3-DPG values, were slightly better preserved in the BTHC plasticized container, compared to the DEHP container. The red cell membrane, however, was slightly less well preserved, (the hemolysis at day 42 with BTHC ww 0.39%; with DEHP, 0.20%) in this container. The higher ATP levels might lead to a better in vivo recovery of stored red cells. In vivo studies comparing both plastic containers, therefore are indicated in order to determine if these differences have practical significance. A longer holding time of the whole blood at room temperature before processing reduced the hemolysis (42 days stored RCC as 0.26%). Slightly more fibrinopeptide A (FPA) generation and marginally lower pH and 2,3-DPG values were observed in this situation. This finding suggests an effect of higher plasticizer levels on the red cell membrane.