Study of Storage-Related Changes in Whole Blood and Packed Red Blood Cells in the Blood Bank of a Tertiary Care Centre of Western Uttar Pradesh

Introduction:Blood transfusion services are integral to modern medicine. With the increasing shift toward component therapy, understanding the storage-related changes in blood products is essential. Whole blood and packed red blood cells (PRBCs) are commonly stored and used, but undergo significant biochemical and haematological changes over time, known as “storage lesions.” This study was conducted to evaluate such changes during a 35-day storage period. Methodology:This observational study included 100 blood units—50 whole blood and 50 PRBC units—randomly collected from voluntary donors at a tertiary care blood center. Samples were assessed on Days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 for haematological (Hb, TLC, differential counts, RBC indices, platelets, ESR) and biochemical (Na⁺, K⁺, LDH) parameters using standard analyzers. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS software, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Results:Significant haematological and biochemical changes were observed with increasing storage duration. In PRBCs, haemoglobin decreased from 17.25 ± 1.67 g/dL on Day 0 to 14.56 ± 2.2 g/dL on Day 35 (p < 0.05), while in whole blood it increased slightly. Total leukocyte counts and platelet counts declined significantly in both groups. Potassium levels increased progressively, while sodium levels declined. LDH levels rose markedly, especially in PRBCs, indicating hemolysis. All changes were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion:Storage leads to predictable and significant deterioration in blood quality. Monitoring haematological and biochemical parameters is crucial to ensure transfusion efficacy and patient safety, particularly beyond 14 days of storage.