Influence of cold storage altered red cell surface on the function of platelets.

In previous studies, we have shown that in the hemoocclusive crisis of sickle cell disease, red blood cells (RBC) develop reversible membrane changes which may represent a thrombogenic surface for platelets. As a result there is platelet activation and platelet derived procoagulant activity. Platelet activation is also enhanced when platelets come into contact with stored RBC in comparison with freshly obtained red blood cells from normal individuals. Pentoxifylline (P, Trental), a trisubstituted xanthine derivative, acts on the red cell membrane and decreases its effect on platelet activation. In addition, it may have direct platelet aggregation inhibitory effects. By decreasing red cell "stiffness", it may also increase the circulating life span of stored red blood cells. It is suggested that pentoxifylline may be explored as an additive in the preservation of RBC.