IMPROVED STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE OF BLOOD PRODUCTS

摘要

Cell membrane maintenance of red blood cells and platelet concentrates is improved by the addition of 1 mM-10 mM L-carnitine and derivatives. This improvement allows extension of the period of viability of packed red blood cells and platelet concentrations beyond current periods. Additionally, the materials so treated exhibit extended circulation half-life upon transfusion to a patient. Improvements in membrane maintenance achieved by this method permit irradiation of sealed containers of blood products so as to substantially sterilize same and destroy leukocytes in the same.