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Abstract

Background: Platelet transfusions are associated with an increased risk of infection and sepsis due to their susceptibility to bacterial contamination. Stored at 20–24°C for up to five days, platelet concentrates (PC) provide an optimal environment for bacterial growth. Bacterial contamination remains a significant cause of transfusion-related morbidity and mortality. Accurate estimates of contamination rates are essential to guide safety practices and testing protocols. The study aimed to determine the frequency of bacterial contamination in random blood donor PC and to identify the most common bacterial species implicated in contamination. Subjects, Materials, and Methods: Samples from 130 random donor PC taken 18–24 hours’ post-donation and before pooling were processed using the Reveos® automated whole blood processing system. Each sample was tested using the BacT/Alert® 3D microbial detection system over five days and simultaneously cultured on solid agar media (blood agar, MacConkey agar, and Sabouraud agar) for 48 hours at 32–34°C. Any microbial growth is supposed to be identified using the VITEK® 2 compact system. Results: All 130 samples tested negative for bacterial and fungal contamination across both testing methods. Conclusions: This study found no evidence of bacterial contamination in the tested PC, unlike prior Iraqi data suggesting greater rates. The results highlight the efficiency of present collecting and storing methods, therefore underlining the need for rigorous aseptic practices and quality control in guaranteeing transfusion safety.

DOI

10.52573/ipmj.2025.160365

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