Platelets: Other causes of discolouration

Colour legend
Example(s) of typical appearance
Example(s) of a change in appearance

In addition to discolouration that may be associated with contamination from RBCs or bacteria, lipemia or icterus, a variety of donor factors, ranging from metabolic conditions to medications or large doses of vitamins taken by donors, can also discolour the plasma portion of platelet units:   

  • Medications (acceptable for transfusion) 
    • Oral contraceptive pill: light green plasma 
       
  • Vitamins (acceptable for transfusion) 
    • Vitamin A (including consumption of large quantities of carrots): bright orange plasma