Which blood component carries the highest risk of bacterial contamination and resultant septic transfusion reaction?
- A Packed red blood cells
- B Pooled random-donor platelets ✓
- C Fresh frozen plasma
- D Cryoprecipitate
Correct answer: B. Pooled random-donor platelets
Explanation
Platelets are stored at 20 to 24 degrees Celsius, a temperature that permits bacterial multiplication, whereas red cells are refrigerated at 1 to 6 degrees Celsius and plasma is frozen. Skin flora organisms such as Staphylococcus epidermidis and Bacillus cereus are the usual contaminants. This is why platelets have the shortest shelf life among routine components, about 5 days, and why bacterial screening or pathogen reduction is mandated in many centres.
Reference: Miller's Anesthesia, 9th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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