Platelets

Blood is made up of several components, each of which has a specialized function:

Plasma
This is the watery fluid in which blood components are suspended. It also contains proteins that help control bleeding and promote normal blood clotting.

Red blood cells
These transport oxygen to the body's tissues and remove carbon dioxide.

White blood cells
The main function of these cells is to fight infection.

Platelets
Platelets are sticky cells which control bleeding and enable blood clotting. Some patients do not make enough platelets. Others lose platelets during, or their platelets do not function properly.
Platelet transfusions may be used for a variety of conditions. Children and adults with cancer or leukemia need platelets after having chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Marrow and organ transplant patients, as well as those suffering from aplastic anemia, also rely on platelet transfusion.

Potential donors are screened to assess whether it is suitable for them to donate platelets. A blood sample is taken to check the full blood count and total protein levels. The donation process is quite simple and takes about one-and-a-half to two hours depending on the procedure. The blood is processed through a cell separator where it is separated into the different components. The platelets are removed and collected in a special bag, while the remaining components are returned to the body.

To be a platelet donor, you must:
- Be between 16 and 60 years of age
- Weigh 55 kg or more
- Have a platelet count above 200 000 per micro liter
- Consider your blood and blood platelets safe to be given to a patient
- Have no medical history of hepatitis
- Not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory medication on a regular basis