Red Cell Components: An Overview of Blood Component Therapy

Whole Blood Stats

- Volume: 450-500 mL

- Storage Temp: 2-6 C

- Shelf Life: ACD/CPD = 21 days

- Hct ~38%

Whole Blood Transfusion Purpose

Volume Expansion & Oxygen Carrying Capacity

Leukocyte Reduced Packed Red Blood Cells (LRBC/PRBC) Stats

- WBC count reduced to <5x10^6

- volume 250-300 mL

- Hct ~60-85% (desirable <80%)

- shelf life = 21-42 days

- storage temp = 2-6 C (Ref)

LRBC Expected Outcome

Increase Hgb 1 g/dL or Hct by 3% 24 hours after transfusion is completed

LRBC/PRBC Purpose

- most common red cell component

- reduced HLA exposure & fever

Previously Frozen Deglycerolized RBCs (DRBC) Stats

- volume - 180 mL

- frozen storage: -65 C

- shelf life 10 years

- once washed, expiration date is 24 hours from wash

- HCT ~70-80%

DRBC Purpose

- Increase Hgb 1 g/dL or Hct by 3% 24 hours after transfusion is completed

- good for rare antigens & patients with allergic reactions

Irradiated Packed Red Cells (LIRBC)

- Volume: 300 mL

- Storage temp: 2-6 C

- Shelf Life: 28 days post irradiation event or expiration date, whichever is first

- Hct: 60-85% (desirable <80%)

LIRBC Purpose

Used for immunocompromised patients (chemo, autoimmune disease, babies)