Background: Because the platelet parameters have recently been used as indicators for various clinical conditions, there is a need to accurately estimate the platelet parameters by using an automated hematology analyzer. The aim of this study was to investigate an effect of a platelet transfusion on such platelet parameters as the mean platelet volume (MPV), the platelet volume distribution width (PDW), the mean platelet component (MPC) and the platelet component distribution width (PCDW) in transfused patients.
Methods: The study subjects were 25 patients who were admitted to the Department of Hematology & Oncology and they had been transfused with platelets. CD62P labeling was performed in the remaining portions of single donor platelets products (SDP) and the pooled platelet concentrates (PC) just before the SDP and PC were released. The platelet parameters were determined using the ADVIA 120 and the whole blood samples from the patients before the platelet transfusions and within 10~16 hours after the transfusion.
Results: There were no significant difference of all the platelet parameters between the SDP (n=21) and the pooled PC (n=8). The MPC and PCDW of the SDP and the PC were significantly lower than those of the samples from the patients before transfusion. However, the PCDW of the samples from the patients after transfusion was significantly lower than that before transfusion.
Conclusion: Because platelet transfusions lower the value of the PCDW in patients, the laboratory staff and clinicians should be aware of this when interpreting the PCDW. (Korean J Hematol 2009;44:36-41.)

Keywords: Platelet transfusion, Platelet parameter, Platelet component distribution width