Investigating the influence of iron parameters in regulating platelet recovery in Apheresis Platelet Donors

IntroductionThe present study investigates changes in haematological parameters in the donor during apheresis and following donation. Effect of iron parameters in influencing platelet recovery was studied. MethodsBlood samples were collected in EDTA tubes for analyses of haematological parameters. Serum samples were isolated for estimation of iron parameters. ResultsHb, RBC count and Hct increased during apheresis, but no significant changes were observed after 48 hrs post donation. Platelet recovery rates increased from 78 % after 48 hours to > 100% on day 10 (p < 0.001). Ferritin, serum iron & Transferrin saturation initially increased and subsequently declined from day 7 post donation, which may influence platelet recovery. Recovery rates were also higher in donors with lower iron stores. ConclusionsChanges in haematological parameters during plateletpheresis are transient and optimal time required for platelet recovery is dependent on pre-donation counts. Recovery of platelet counts may be positively regulated by donor iron parameters.