As Dengue Cases Up, Bengaluru Blood Banks See Surge In Platelets Requests

The number of dengue infections in Bengaluru is on the rise, and this has caused a significant increase in the demand for platelets at the city's blood banks. According to BBMP, an average of 60 dengue cases are recorded in Bangalore every day.

According to media reports, various blood banks informed that while the average monthly sale of platelets used to be one or two units, it has now jumped to 5 to 10 units per month. While there is currently no shortage of this crucial blood transfusion component, the demand has increased.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is set to survey 12 lakh houses across eight zones, primarily in slums and low-lying areas near rajakaluves and closely situated to each other. Rapid tests will be conducted wherever symptoms are detected.

Why do platelets decrease when you have dengue fever?

Platelet counts decrease during dengue fever because the virus suppresses bone marrow activity, where platelets are produced. The virus directly affects blood cells, leading to platelet damage and a decrease in their numbers.

Types of Platelets:

There are two types of platelets used for transfusions: Random Donor Platelets (RDP) and Single Donor Platelets (SDP). Platelets are stored in unit counts. In the RDP method, blood is drawn from five donors, and the platelets are separated and collected into one unit, which contains approximately 1.20 lakh platelets. In the SDP method, platelets are isolated from the blood of a single donor and given to the patient.

SDP platelets are collected using advanced machinery. Blood from a donor is sent into the machine, where the platelets are separated and collected. The platelet-free blood is then returned to the donor's body. This process takes about 3 to 4 hours.

RDP vs. SDP: Which Is Better?

There is no significant difference between RDP and SDP platelets. Both methods provide units with roughly 1.20 lakh platelets. Therefore, either type can be given to a dengue patient who needs platelets. However, SDP platelets are generally preferred for children or unmarried young women. The decision on which type to use is ultimately made by the doctor, depending on the patient's condition and the availability of donors.

When to Use RDP and When to Use SDP

RDP is typically given to all dengue patients, but SDP is used when donors are not available or when the patient's condition requires it. Finding a single donor for SDP can be challenging, so RDP is often the more readily available option.

Cost of RDP vs. SDP

The cost of platelets varies between RDP and SDP due to the difference in the collection process. One unit of SDP is equivalent to five units of RDP. Generally, the price of one unit of RDP is around Rs. 500, while one unit of SDP in Bengaluru can cost approximately Rs. 11,000.

How many days do platelets last?

Platelets are tiny cells in your blood that form clots and stop bleeding. Platelets must be used within five days and new donors are needed every day. Platelets have a lifespan of only 5 days, meaning they cannot be stored for long periods in blood banks. They must be separated from fresh blood obtained from donors and sold in units shortly after collection.

What is a healthy platelet count?

A normal platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. A count exceeding 450,000 is known as thrombocytosis, while a count below 150,000 is referred to as thrombocytopenia. Platelet numbers are determined through a routine blood test called a complete blood count (CBC).

The Importance of Platelets in Dengue Treatment

A significant drop in platelet count is a common and dangerous symptom in dengue patients. Platelets help prevent blood leakage when the body is injured. A low platelet count can lead to decreased immunity and potentially fatal internal bleeding. Therefore, monitoring and maintaining platelet levels is crucial for dengue patients. A healthy human has a platelet count of 1.50 lakh to 4.50 lakh per microliter of blood, and a drop in this count can be life-threatening.