Quality of platelet concentrates derived by platelet rich plasma, buffy coat and Apheresis.

Platelets derived from platelet rich plasma, buffy coat and Apheresis technologies differ in terms of in vitro functional activity, aggregation states and storage characteristics, as measured by automated cell counters, and pH assessment. This may be related to either differences in the subpopulation of platelets and leucocytes recovered or the processing/storage induced cellular damage. Some types of methodologies, such as BC derived-PC, appear to have a higher rate of bacterial contamination.