Review Article

Platelets and Preservation: An Update Review of Challenges for a Resource-Limited Setting

Abstract

Platelets are small anucleate cytoplasmic fragments derived from bone marrow megakaryocytes under the influence of thrombopoietin. They play essential roles in primary haemostasis by adhering, activating, and aggregating at sites of vascular injury while providing a phospholipid surface for secondary coagulation. Beyond haemostasis, platelets contribute to inflammation, immunity, angiogenesis, and tissue repair through the release of bioactive mediators. Platelet transfusion is indicated for severe thrombocytopenia, platelet dysfunction, and bleeding disorders. Platelet concentrates, prepared from whole blood or apheresis, require stringent storage conditions to maintain viability. However, their preparation and preservation remain challenging in resource-limited settings because of inadequate infrastructure, equipment, funding, and quality assurance systems, emphasizing the need for improved transfusion services.

Authors affiliation:

Ogoamaka Chinyere Ozochukwu: Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Science and Technology, University of Nigeria.
Silas Anayo Ufelle: Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Science and Technology, University of Nigeria.
Alphonsus Ogbonna Ogbuabor (ORCID): Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Agbani, Nigeria.

How To Cite: O.C. Ozochukwu, S.A. Ufelle, and A.O. Ogbuabor. Platelets and Preservation: An Update Review of Challenges for a Resource-Limited Setting. Healthcare Issues, 5(2):52–58, 2026. https://doi.org/10.58614/hi528