Figure 1.

A schematic of platelet storage. Hemostatic potential decreases while soluble mediators and microparticles increase during storage. Upon transfusion, donor platelets may need to become activated for sufficient hemostatic effect. However as a stored platelet concentrate ages, the hemostatic potential of the platelets has been shown to decrease in number and function (blue line). Adverse effects occurring in the recipient after transfusion are probably more likely to occur after prolonged storage of platelet concentrates. Recent investigations suggest that adverse events after platelet transfusion may well be associated with increased accumulation of microparticles and soluble inflammatory and thrombotic mediators during platelet storage (red line).