Common blood storage bags may leach microplastics into stored blood
In the 1970s, PVC bags revolutionized the storage of blood and blood products for transfusion. Disposable plastic (PVC) bags replaced reusable glass bottles, making the process more convenient and safer from contamination. Over half a century later, the same disposable plastic bags are creating a new kind of problem because of microplastics (MPs). These tiny particles, less than 5 millimeters in…
Plastic blood storage bags may be releasing microplastics into the blood and preservation fluids used for transfusions, according to a study published in Environment & Health. PVC bags, which have been used for blood storage since the 1970s, are now found to be a source of these tiny particles, called microplastics. Researchers from China discovered that microplastics not only contaminated blood-preservation fluids but also entered stored blood samples, with some particles attaching to red blood cells.
The levels of microplastics increased significantly over time, with storage temperatures and bag movement playing a role in the amount released. Microplastics can have adverse effects on human health, as they have been found to invade various tissues and organs. The study involved analyzing 24 leftover blood samples from PVC blood bags stored at a hospital and comparing them to brand-new blood bags filled with standard preservation solutions.
The researchers found that microplastic particles shed from the bags had adverse effects on the quality of stored red blood cells, including reduced ATP levels and shape changes. Ultrafiltration was identified as a potential solution to remove 78%–85% of the microplastics, mitigating the adverse effects.
Written by urgent.news from Medical Xpress's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
