Preservation of platelet viability and function during storage of concentrates.

It has now been substantiated that the viability and function of concentrated platelets stored for 72 hours are best preserved at a storage temperature of 22 degrees C rather than 4 degrees C. However, in order to preserve viability at 22 degrees C several other conditions must be met and maintained, namely, an appropriate storage bag (Fenwal's PL-146, McGaw or Cutter's CL-2383), constant gentle agitation with a platform shaker, CPD anticoagulation, and a platelet concentration of less than 1.6 x 10(12)/liter. Unfortunately, in vitro parameters which can accurately assess stored platelet viability and function are not reliable.