In vitro evaluation of di(2-ethylhexyl)terephthalate-plasticized polyvinyl chloride blood bags for red blood cell storage in AS-1 and PAGGSM additive solutions.

Background: Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) makes polyvinyl chloride flexible for use in blood bags and stabilizes the red blood cell (RBC) membrane preventing excessive hemolysis. DEHP migrates into the blood product and rodent studies have suggested that DEHP exposure may be associated with adverse health effects albeit at high dosages. Although structurally and functionally similar to DEHP, di(2-ethylhexyl)terephthalate (DEHT; or Eastman 168 SG [Eastman Chemical Company]) is metabolically distinct with a comprehensive and benign toxicology profile.

Automated collection of double red blood cell units with a variable-volume separation chamber.

Background: Automated collection of blood components offers multiple advantages and has prompted development of portable devices. This study sought to document the biochemical and hematologic properties and in vivo recovery of red cells (RBCs) collected via a new device that employed a variable-volume centrifugal separation chamber.

Study Design And Methods: Normal subjects (n = 153) donated 2 units of RBCs via an automated blood collection system (Cymbal, Haemonetics).