Platelets are a type of microscopic red blood cells that are shaped like tiny plates. Platelets are about one-fifth the size of red blood cells, and each is only a piece of a cell. The average amount of platelets in the bloodstream is between 150,000 and 350,000 per microliter of blood. Platelet transfusion brings platelet levels up when they have fallen below the normal level.
Identification
Platelets are created in the body's bone marrow, along with red and white blood cells. The specific structure of platelets allows them to form clots, which is important to stop bleeding. If a child is injured, platelets in the bloodstream gather at the site, clumping together to provide a seal. Platelets are extremely important for protection against external blood loss and internal bleeding.
Thrombocytopenia
Abnormally low levels of platelets is called thrombocytopenia, which can occur in a child for several reasons, including the body's destruction of platelets or reduced production. According to the Mayo Clinic, some pediatric disorders that result in thrombocytopenia include leukemia, aplastic anemia, or thrombocytopenia purpura, an autoimmune condition that causes the body to attack and destroy its own platelets.
Reactions
Each child has a blood type, and platelet transfusions must be compatible. Because platelets are given by donors, there is a possibility of a mismatch of blood types between the donor and the recipient. If the platelets are incompatible, the child's body reacts by producing antibodies against the platelets. This may cause an allergic reaction, such as hives or difficulty breathing. In some situations, the body rejects the platelets and the thrombocytopenia is unresolved, says Cincinnati Children's Hospital.
Complications
Potential complications associated with a platelet transfusion in children include infection, electrolyte alterations or hypervolemia. Cincinnati Children's Hospital states that infection may occur following platelet transfusion due to contaminated samples. If the platelets have been stored for a long time, potassium can build up in the sample and alter potassium levels in a child's body following transfusion. Children who receive many transfusions are at risk of overloading the circulatory system, a condition that places extra pressure on the heart.
Administration
The choice to transfuse platelets is based on clinical presentation of the child and the protocol of the health-care facility. The platelets are separated from the donated whole blood and stored in a refrigerator. Platelets are given through an intravenous, or IV, line, which will send them directly into the blood stream. The platelets are in a yellow-colored fluid, which is attached to the IV tubing and connected to a machine that controls how fast the platelets drip into the vein. A physician orders how much of a transfusion to give as well as the length of time the dose should be administered, according to the Macmillan Cancer Support website.
