Stability of red cell antigens during prolonged storage in citrate-phosphate-dextrose and a new preservative solution.

Red cells anticoagulated with citrate-phosphate-dextrose (CPD) or a commercial preservative solution containing adenine, sodium chloride, and mannitol (ADSOL) and stored in heat-sealed segments of plastic tubing were tested for antigen stability after refrigeration at 4 degrees C for up to 56 days. Reactivity of the A, B, c, D, K, Lea, Fya, M, and P1 antigens was maintained adequately during the storage period in both solutions. Heat-sealed segments containing red cells suspended in either CPD or ADSOL preservation solutions for up to 56 days appear acceptable for use in compatibility testing.