Transfusion of red blood cells ≥35 days old: A narrative review of clinical outcomes

Intentional transfusion of expired blood products

“…[48][49][50][51] They did not evaluate outcomes at the margin of expiration. 2 Several studies assessed clinical outcomes for RBCs ≥35 days old. Retrospective analysis of hospital transfusion databases found increased mortality 52,53 and composite morbidity.…”

“…In a recent article, we reviewed studies examining patient outcomes following the transfusion of RBCs 35-42-days old to identify risks near expiration. 2 Past the expiration date, however, data is limited to in vitro and in vivo experiments and clinical studies that pre-date modern regulations. As a randomized trial will likely never be conducted, this commentary summarizes the history of storage system development, regulatory evolution, premodern clinical use, and modern storage-quality trials to help inform clinicians considering the use of an expired product.…”