Why stored transfusion blood may become less safe with age
Wednesday, July 13, 2011 - 21:30
in Health & Medicine
Transfused blood may need to be stored differently to prevent the breakdown of red blood cells that can lead to complications including infection, organ failure and death, say researchers. They reveal new biological interactions between breakdown products and nitric oxide that can reduce blood flow and possibly damage vital tissues after administration of blood stored for longer than 39 days.