We have compared the ability of transfused platelets that were fresh or stored for 24 hr at room temperature (22° C) to increase the platelet counts of thrombocytopenic patients with acute leukemia. Increments in the recipients’ platelet counts after transfusion of stored platelets were substantially smaller and shorter-lived than those given by fresh platelets. This was the case even in patients who responded consistently to fresh platelets.

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