Comparison of Changes Due to Storage in Red Cell Concentrate from AA, AS, and AC Blood Donors at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Nigeria

Background: Red blood cell concentrate (RCC) is an essential therapeutic intervention for patients with anaemia, anemic heart failure, or hematological disorders. Aim: This study evaluated red cell indices, RBC enzymes, and membrane integrity in common haemoglobin variants among prospective blood donors before and after RCC preparation. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 72 prospective blood donors at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital. Participants were profiled using structured questionnaires. Whole blood (pre-donation) and RCC (post-harvest) samples were analyzed for mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell hemoglobin (MCH), mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), Osmotic Fragility Test (OFT), Lactic Acid Dehydrogenase (LDH), Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD), and Phosphatidylserine (PS) across haemoglobin genotypes (AA, AS, AC) using hematology analyzers and ELISA-based assays. Data were analyzed descriptively, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: RCC showed increased concentrations of G6PD, LDH, PS, and red cell functional parameters relative to baseline. Between post-harvest and pre-transfusion intervals, G6PD, LDH, and PS rose significantly, while OFT decreased significantly. Over 72-hour storage, G6PD, LDH, and PS progressively increased, though not significantly. Among hemoglobin variants, AA genotype exhibited superior red cell function compared to AC and AS. G6PD was highest in AA (0.53 ± 0.29), while LDH was lower than in AS and AC. PS concentration peaked in AC (p = 0.028), and osmotic fragility was highest in AS, though not significant. Conclusion: The study reveals early onset of red cell lesions during RCC processing, worsening after 72 hours of storage, marked by increased enzyme activity and reduced membrane integrity. AA genotype donors demonstrated superior RCC quality, suggesting their blood offers optimal transfusion safety and stability.