cryopreserved platelets

Cryopreserved platelets are human platelet concentrates that have been preserved by freezing—typically at −80°C using 5–6% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a cryoprotectant and diluted in plasma. This process extends their shelf life from the standard 5–7 days for liquid-stored platelets to at least one year and potentially up to 12 years. After thawing, these preactivated platelets are used primarily for therapeutic transfusion in bleeding patients (not prophylactically), especially in settings where fresh platelet supply is limited or logistics are challenging (e.g., remote hospitals, military environments). Cryopreservation alters some platelet properties—reducing post-transfusion survival and aggregation—but maintains or enhances hemostatic function due to increased activation state and procoagulant activity. Clinical studies show that cryopreserved platelets are effective for controlling bleeding with safety profiles comparable to conventional products[1][2][3][9].

Other names

frozen plateletsCPP