Consensus Conference on Platelet Transfusion: Final Statement

Guidelines on the management of massive blood loss

“…Expert consensus advises that the platelet count should not be allowed to fall below the critical level of 50 × 10 9 /l in the acutely bleeding patient (Contreras, 1998) (Grade C recommendation, level IV evidence) , and this is endorsed by the BCSH guidelines for the use of platelet transfusions. (British Committee for Standards in Haematology Blood Transfusion Task Force, 2003) A platelet count of 50 × 10 9 /l may be anticipated when approximately two blood volumes have been replaced by fluid or red cell components (Hiippala et al , 1995) but there is marked individual variation.…”

Transfused stored platelets have the same haemostatic function as circulating native platelets

“…Low platelet (PLT) counts (< 50 × 10 9 /l) are considered a major risk factor for bleeding complications [1]. PLT transfusion is used therapeutically in patients with quantitative or qualitative PLT disorders who are actively bleeding, or as prophylaxis in patients who are at serious risk of bleeding [2].…”

Management of Coagulopathy in Acute Fatty Liver of Pregnancy

“…Later the patient fulfilled the hospital criteria for massive transfusion and was initiated by the obstetrician.A ratio of 1:1:1(packed red cells: fresh frozen plasma: platelets) was used for transfusion of blood components. Massive transfusion is defined as a transfusion requiring replacement of patient's entire blood volume in 24 hours (10-12 units of packed red cells) [5] or replacement of 50% of the total blood volume within 4 hours (4-6 units of packed red cells) or need for at least 4 units of packed red cells within 4 hours with continued major bleeding or a blood loss exceeding 150 ml/min [6]. The decision to start and end the transfusion depends on the clinician.…”