Ten things ICU specialists need to know about platelet transfusions.

Platelet transfusions are commonly used in critically ill patients to prevent or treat bleeding, but their benefits and potential harms are uncertain. Platelet concentrates, which are produced from donated blood, have a limited storage duration and there is a high demand for them. Manufacturing and storage of platelet concentrates can lead to changes in their structure and function. Prophylactic platelet transfusion may reduce the risk of bleeding, but the optimal thresholds for transfusion are uncertain. The dose of platelet transfusion does not affect the risk of bleeding. Post-transfusion platelet increments are often poor in critically ill patients. The use of platelet transfusions prior to certain procedures in ICU patients remains unclear. Platelet transfusions have been found to improve outcomes in severely injured bleeding patients. However, platelet transfusions are not indicated for the reversal of anti-platelet agents. Platelet transfusions can have potential side effects, including increased risk of infections and pulmonary side effects. [Extracted from the article]