In the United States, for the last 10-15 years, "platelet transfusion" means "apheresis platelet transfusion." Whole blood-derived platelets are used far less often, but Mark Yazer thinks that is a BIG mistake!
Dr. Mark Yazer
Dr. Mark Yazer
DISCLAIMER and DISCLOSURES: The opinions expressed on this episode are those of my guest and I alone, and do not reflect those of the organizations with which either of us is affiliated. Dr. Yazer wanted to mention that he is on the Scientific Advisory Board for several companies including Terumo, Macopharma, Grifols, and Octapharma. I (Dr. Chaffin) have no relevant financial disclosures for this episode.
The image below covers Dr. Yazer's main points in this episode.
I think that the question whether to use one or the other will last forever. It is really difficult to convince someone who has been bombarded with the message that the apheresis is absolutely better. Now we know that is not true. In psychology we have the “Halo Effect” which means that people in suits are percieved as better and having better traits overall. The same phenomenon occurs with apheresis – more expensive, obtained using more sophisticated machinery is simply considered to be better. The time has come to enlighten the community. Thank you Gentelmen for starting this.
I think you are correct, Tom. It’s not an easy discussion when the narrative was so different for so long. Thanks for writing.
-Joe
I really appreciate your website. It’s the best source of up-to-date knowledge regarding blood banking on the web. Thank you for your effort and dedication. You have some followers in Poland too!