Transfusion Product: Platelets

Transfusion of platelets, or plateletpheresis, has been a life-saving therapy method since the mid-1900s. Successful whole blood transfusions were attempted in the 1600s; however, the discovery of transfusion of platelets as a blood product was a revolutionary method used initially during World War II. Since then, there have been many advancements in using platelets for prevention and treatment of various hematological conditions. The incorporation of platelet products in a hospital setting is easy and feasible due to the ready availability and low immunogenicity of platelets. The separation of platelets from whole blood and effective storage and handling have ensured that it is a relatively straightforward and manageable process to use in patient treatment.