Storage of ADSOL-preserved red cells at 2.5 and 5.5 degrees C: comparable retention of in vitro properties.

Previous studies with CPDA-1 and Nutricel preserving solutions indicated that red cell properties were affected by small differences in storage temperature. The influence of a 3 degrees C differential on the preservation of the in vitro properties of ADSOL-preserved (AS-1) red blood cells was investigated in a paired study. AS-1 red blood cells were stored at 2.5 and 5.5 degrees C for 42 days. Extent of hemolysis, glucose consumption and pH levels were comparable at the two storage temperatures. Lactate levels were slightly, but significantly higher at 5.5 degrees C. ATP levels were slightly but significantly higher at 2.5 degrees C, only during the later part of the storage period. 2.3-DPG levels were slightly better retained at 2.5 degrees C after 7 days of storage. Holding units of whole blood for either 1 or 8 h at ambient temperature after phlebotomy prior to processing did not influence the types of temperature-dependent changes. The differences as a function of storage temperature were small and appear to be of no practical importance in connection with the storage of AS-1 red blood cells.