Protective effects of vitamins E and C on erythrocytes in blood preserved in ACD solution and stored at 4 degrees C.

Vitamins E and C were used for the enrichment of the fluid for blood preservation. Whole blood with added ACD solution and vitamins E and C was stored at 4 degrees C for 21 days. The performed determinations included: haematocrit, osmotic fragility of the erythrocytes, ATP and 2,3-DPG content in the erythrocytes, and echinocyte count. A protective effect of these vitamins on erythrocytes was manifested by the decreased osmotic fragility, the steep fall of 2,3-DPG compared with the blood preserved in the vitamin-free ACD solution.