Using the mean platelet volume MPV for the quality assessment of apheresis procedures.

Introduction: Referring to current standards the quality of an apheresis procedure is estimated by the quantity of collected cells. Nowadays a new kind of quality measurement could be found in the detection of cell volumina. Recent diagnostics have shown that stem cells and platelets - when separated - are likely to appear in a higher volume inside the cell product.

Parameters predicting complications in flap surgery.

Objectives: The aim of this prospective study was to determine laboratory parameters predicting complications and/or failure in flap surgery.

Study Design: Fifty-seven patients undergoing reconstructive surgery with cutaneous free and pedicled flaps were included. Blood samples were taken 2 days before surgery and 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14 days after.

Soluble CD40L release as test for functional platelet loss.

Background: During platelet storage, alterations of the platelet function, 'platelet storage lesion', can be observed resulting in a reduced platelet viability. The release of soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) by platelets reflects different aspects of platelet metabolism and activity. Therefore, we used the sCD40L release to test for functional platelet loss in platelet products during storage in comparison to the formation of thromboxane (TXB2).

Alterations of serum erythropoietin and thrombopoietin levels in patients undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG).

Introduction: The hormones erythropoietin (EPO) and thrombopoietin (TPO) are main regulators of erythro- and thrombopoiesis. Cell loss caused by operative procedures may alter serum levels of the hormones, resulting in well known phenomenons like reactice thrombocytosis.

Material And Methods: Blood samples from 10 patients (mean age 63 ± 9 years) were obtained before and at day 1, 5 and 10 after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Platelet transfusion alters CD40L blood level and release capacity in patients suffering from thrombocytopenia.

Background: Platelet (PLT)-derived cytokines, such as soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), play an important role in the development of adverse transfusion reactions associated with the administration of PLT products. In this study, we determined sCD40L concentration and release capacity in patients with thrombocytopenia before and after receiving a PLT transfusion.

Study Design And Methods: The study included 12 patients suffering from chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia.