Pediatric platelet transfusions in critical illness: a narrative review of recent studies

Abstract

Purpose of review: We sought to describe the current use of platelet transfusions, harms associated with platelet transfusion, new methods of platelet processing that attempt to address these harms, and recent platelet transfusion guidance specific to critically ill children.

Recent findings: Platelet transfusions have been associated with significant morbidity and mortality. New processing techniques, such as pathogen reduction, have been developed to combat infectious risks but in a recent trial of platelet transfusion thresholds in neonates, transfusing platelets more liberally was associated with increased bleeding and mortality.

Summary: Recent efforts to develop evidence-based guidelines for platelet transfusion in critically ill children were limited by the lack of evidence. However, given the significant risks, restrictive transfusion thresholds should be considered.