How are Platelets Collected?
Platelets are typically collected through a process called
apheresis, where blood is drawn from a donor, platelets are separated, and the remaining blood components are returned to the donor. Alternatively, platelets can be pooled from multiple whole blood donations.
Histological Characteristics of Platelets
Under the microscope, platelets appear as small, irregularly shaped cell fragments with no nucleus, typically measuring 2-3 µm in diameter. They contain
granules that store chemicals essential for clotting and wound repair, such as
serotonin,
ADP, and
calcium ions.
Compatibility and Cross-Matching
Before a platelet transfusion, it is crucial to ensure
compatibility between the donor and recipient to prevent adverse reactions. Cross-matching involves testing the recipient's blood against donor platelets to check for any
antibodies that might cause a reaction.
Histological Changes Post-Transfusion
After transfusion, histological analysis can reveal the integration of donor platelets with the recipient's circulatory system. This can be observed through staining techniques that highlight platelet markers, showing the distribution and activity of transfused platelets in
tissue samples.
