Platelet and Plasma Transfusion Treatment in Delhi

Platelet and plasma transfusions are critical medical procedures that help patients with low blood counts, bleeding disorders, and blood cancers. These transfusions replace essential blood components that the body cannot produce adequately, supporting patients through cancer treatment, bone marrow failure, and various haematological conditions.

Under the expert care of Dr. Satyendra Katewa, a leading pediatric hemato-oncologist and blood disorders specialist in Delhi, patients receive safe, evidence-based blood transfusions for cancer patients with comprehensive monitoring. Dr. Katewa specialises in pediatric platelet and plasma transfusion and thorough treatment of pediatric blood disorders in Delhi, ensuring optimal outcomes for both children and adults.

What Is Platelet Transfusion?

Platelet transfusion is a medical procedure that delivers concentrated platelets, tiny blood cells responsible for clotting, to patients whose platelet counts are dangerously low or whose platelets don’t function properly. Platelets prevent bleeding and help wounds heal by forming clots at injury sites.

When platelet counts drop below safe levels, patients face serious risks of spontaneous bleeding, including internal bleeding in vital organs like the brain or gastrointestinal tract. Platelet transfusion provides immediate protection until the body can produce its own platelets.

What Is Plasma Transfusion?

Plasma transfusion involves giving fresh frozen plasma (FFP) or other plasma products to patients who lack specific clotting factors or have bleeding disorders. Plasma is the liquid portion of blood containing proteins, clotting factors, antibodies, and other essential substances that maintain blood volume and enable proper clotting.

Plasma transfusion for clotting disorders helps restore normal blood clotting function, preventing or controlling bleeding episodes in patients with deficiencies of multiple clotting factors.

How Platelet and Plasma Transfusions Work?

Platelet and plasma transfusions help support the body by replacing essential blood components when levels are low.

Platelet Transfusion Mechanism

Platelets collected from healthy donors are concentrated and stored in special bags. When transfused into a patient, these platelets immediately begin circulating in the bloodstream, providing clotting ability within hours. The transfused platelets typically survive 3-5 days in the recipient’s circulation before being replaced.

Plasma Transfusion Mechanism

Fresh frozen plasma contains all clotting factors in their natural proportions. When transfused, these factors quickly restore the blood’s ability to form stable clots, controlling active bleeding or preventing bleeding during procedures. Plasma also helps maintain blood pressure and fluid balance in critically ill patients.

With timely transfusions and proper medical care, patients can stay safer and recover more comfortably during treatment.

When Is Platelet Transfusion Required?

Platelet transfusion is indicated in several critical situations:

Severe Thrombocytopenia (Low Platelet Count)

When platelet counts fall below 10,000-20,000 per microliter, spontaneous bleeding increases significantly. Transfusion provides immediate protection while underlying causes are addressed.

Active Bleeding

Patients with platelet counts below 50,000 who are actively bleeding require platelet transfusion to control haemorrhage, regardless of the bleeding cause.

Before Surgical Procedures

Surgery or invasive procedures require adequate platelet counts (typically above 50,000-100,000, depending on procedure type) to prevent excessive bleeding. Prophylactic transfusion ensures surgical safety.

Platelet Transfusion During Chemotherapy

Cancer treatments often suppress bone marrow, causing severe thrombocytopenia. Platelet transfusion for children with cancer and adults undergoing chemotherapy prevents life-threatening bleeding complications during treatment.

Platelet Dysfunction

Some patients have adequate platelet numbers but platelets that don’t function properly due to medications, inherited disorders, or disease. Transfusion provides functional platelets when needed.

When Is Plasma Transfusion Required?

Plasma transfusion is essential in various clinical scenarios:

Multiple Clotting Factor Deficiencies

Liver disease, vitamin K deficiency, or certain medications can cause deficiencies of multiple clotting factors simultaneously. Plasma provides comprehensive factor replacement.

Active Bleeding with Coagulopathy

Patients bleeding due to clotting factor deficiencies require plasma transfusion to stop haemorrhage and stabilise clotting function.

Plasma Transfusion for Bleeding Disorders

Rare bleeding disorders affecting multiple clotting factors can be treated with plasma transfusion when specific factor concentrates aren’t available.

Plasma Transfusion During Cancer Treatment

Cancer patients, particularly those with leukaemia or undergoing intensive chemotherapy, may develop clotting abnormalities requiring plasma support.

Before Major Surgery

Patients with known clotting factor deficiencies receive plasma transfusions before surgery to ensure adequate hemostasis during and after procedures.

Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP)

This rare condition requires plasma exchange therapy, where the patient’s plasma is removed and replaced with donor plasma.

Common Conditions Requiring Transfusion

Blood transfusions are commonly needed in certain medical conditions to restore healthy blood levels and support recovery.

Platelet Transfusion for Blood Cancer

Blood cancers like leukaemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma frequently cause low platelet counts through bone marrow infiltration or treatment side effects. Platelet transfusion in leukaemia patients is often needed multiple times weekly during intensive chemotherapy phases.

Plasma Transfusion for Leukaemia

Leukaemia patients may develop disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) or other clotting abnormalities requiring plasma support to prevent or control bleeding.

Aplastic Anemia

Bone marrow failure conditions require regular platelet and sometimes plasma transfusions until definitive treatment, like bone marrow transplantation, restores normal blood production.

Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)

Severe ITP with dangerous bleeding may require platelet transfusion despite the immune-mediated destruction, providing temporary protection during acute episodes.

Inherited Bleeding Disorders

Children with rare clotting factor deficiencies may require plasma transfusion when specific factor concentrates aren’t available, or multiple factors are deficient.

Chemotherapy-Induced Thrombocytopenia

Most cancer patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy experience periods of severe thrombocytopenia requiring supportive platelet transfusion until bone marrow recovery.

Timely transfusions help stabilise patients and support safer, more effective treatment.

Diagnostic Tests Before Transfusion

Comprehensive testing ensures safe and appropriate transfusion therapy.

Pre-Transfusion Testing

Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures platelet count, haemoglobin, and white blood cell levels to determine transfusion need and establish baseline values.

Coagulation Studies: PT/INR and aPTT tests assess clotting function and identify plasma transfusion needs.

Blood Typing: ABO and Rh blood group determination ensures compatible transfusion products.

Antibody Screening: Detects antibodies against blood cell antigens that could cause transfusion reactions.

Infectious Disease Screening: All donated blood products are tested for HIV, hepatitis B and C, syphilis, and other transmissible infections.

Crossmatching: For plasma transfusion, compatibility testing ensures safe administration.

Dr. Katewa’s centre follows rigorous testing protocols, ensuring the safety of platelet transfusions and optimal patient outcomes.

Step-by-Step Platelet Transfusion Procedure

Platelet transfusion follows a simple, carefully monitored process to raise platelet levels and prevent bleeding safely.

1. Pre-Transfusion Preparation

Patient Assessment: Vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate) are recorded as baseline values. Medical history reviews identify previous transfusion reactions or allergies.

Consent: Patients or guardians receive information about the transfusion purpose, benefits, risks, and alternatives, then provide informed consent.

Venous Access: A secure IV line is established, or an existing central line is accessed for transfusion administration.

Blood Product Verification: Nurses verify patient identity, blood type, and platelet unit compatibility through a standardised two-person check process.

2. Transfusion Administration

Initial Monitoring: Transfusion begins slowly while healthcare providers watch closely for immediate reactions during the first 15 minutes, the highest-risk period.

Infusion Rate: Platelet transfusions typically run over 30-60 minutes per unit. The rate may be adjusted based on patient tolerance and clinical condition.

Continuous Observation: Nurses remain nearby, checking vital signs every 15-30 minutes and monitoring for any signs of adverse reactions.

Patient Comfort: Patients rest comfortably, reading, watching videos, or engaging in quiet activities during transfusion.

3. Post-Transfusion Care

Final Vital Signs: A Complete vital sign check ensures no delayed reactions develop.

Platelet Count Check: Blood tests 1 hour and sometimes 24 hours post-transfusion assess platelet increment and transfusion effectiveness.

Symptom Monitoring: Patients report any symptoms, such as fever, chills, itching, or breathing difficulty, immediately.

Documentation: Complete transfusion records, including product details, timing, vital signs, and patient response, are maintained.

Most platelet transfusions for blood cancer patients occur as outpatient procedures, allowing patients to go home shortly after completion.

Step-by-Step Plasma Transfusion Procedure

Plasma transfusion follows a carefully monitored, step-by-step process to support clotting and recovery safely.

1. Pre-Transfusion Phase

Clinical Assessment: Review of bleeding symptoms, coagulation studies, and medical history guides plasma dosing.

Product Preparation: Fresh frozen plasma is thawed to body temperature, a process that takes 20-30 minutes.

Patient Preparation: Similar to platelet transfusion, including vital signs, consent, and IV access verification.

2. Plasma Administration

Infusion Duration: Plasma transfusion typically takes 30-60 minutes per unit, though urgent situations may require faster administration.

ABO Compatibility: Plasma must be ABO-compatible to prevent hemolytic reactions. Type AB plasma is universal donor plasma.

Vital Sign Monitoring: Frequent checks during and after transfusion help detect early reactions.

3. Post-Transfusion Evaluation

Coagulation Testing: Repeat PT/INR and aPTT tests to verify clotting factor correction.

Clinical Assessment: Evaluation of bleeding control or prevention confirms the effectiveness of the transfusion.

Continued Monitoring: Observation continues for several hours, especially after the first-time plasma transfusion.

With proper monitoring, plasma transfusions are a safe and effective part of supportive care.

Platelet Transfusion Safety and Quality Standards

Modern blood banking ensures exceptional platelet transfusion safety:

Donor Screening

Rigorous health questionnaires and physical examinations exclude donors with risk factors for transmissible diseases.

Product Testing

Every donation undergoes testing for HIV, hepatitis viruses, syphilis, and other infectious agents using sensitive molecular methods.

Leukoreduction

Most platelet products are leukoreduced, removing white blood cells that can cause transfusion reactions or transmit the CMV virus.

Bacterial Testing

Platelets stored at room temperature undergo bacterial contamination testing to prevent septic transfusion reactions.

Irradiation

For immunocompromised patients like those receiving chemotherapy or bone marrow transplants, platelet products are irradiated to prevent transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease.

Temperature Monitoring

Strict temperature control during storage and transport maintains platelet viability and function.

Dr. Katewa’s practice partners with accredited blood banks that follow the National Blood Transfusion Council guidelines, ensuring the highest safety standards.

Difference Between Platelet and Plasma Transfusion

Understanding these distinctions helps families grasp their loved one’s treatment:

Aspect	Platelet Transfusion	Plasma Transfusion
Component Transfused	Concentrated platelets, the clotting cells that plug bleeding sites and start clot formation	Liquid plasma containing clotting factors, proteins, and antibodies; minimal cellular components
Primary Purpose	Treats or prevents bleeding due to low platelet counts or platelet dysfunction	Corrects clotting factor deficiencies causing coagulopathy and bleeding
Storage and Handling	Stored at room temperature with gentle agitation for 5–7 days	Frozen at -18°C or below; viable for up to one year until thawed for use
Transfusion Volume	Typically 1 unit (50–70 mL) per dose; most patients receive 1–2 units	Usually larger volumes: 2–4 units (400–800 mL) per transfusion
Clinical Indications	Thrombocytopenia from bone marrow failure, chemotherapy, or increased destruction	Multiple clotting factor deficiencies, liver disease, warfarin reversal, or TTP treatment

Platelet Transfusion Side Effects

Most platelet transfusions proceed without complications, but potential side effects include:

Common Reactions

Fever and Chills: Most common reaction, typically mild and manageable with acetaminophen. Often related to antibodies against donor white blood cells in patients who’ve received multiple transfusions.

Allergic Reactions: Mild itching, hives, or skin rash occurring in about 1-3% of transfusions. Treated with antihistamines.

Fluid Overload: Rare with platelet transfusion due to small volumes, but possible in patients with heart or kidney problems.

Less Common Reactions

Transfusion-Related Acute Lung Injury (TRALI): A Rare but severe reaction causing breathing difficulty. Requires immediate medical attention.

Bacterial Contamination: Sporadic due to modern testing, but platelets stored at room temperature carry a slightly higher risk than refrigerated products.

Alloimmunization: Development of antibodies against donor platelets after multiple transfusions, making future transfusions less effective. Managed with HLA-matched platelets when needed.

Pediatric Considerations

Pediatric platelet transfusion is generally well tolerated. Dr. Katewa’s team uses appropriate volumes for children’s smaller blood volumes and monitors carefully for any reactions.

Plasma Transfusion Side Effects

Plasma transfusion carries similar but distinct risks:

Common Side Effects

Allergic Reactions: More common with plasma than platelets due to protein content. Symptoms range from mild itching to severe anaphylaxis.

Fever: Occurs in some patients, usually mild and self-limiting.

Citrate Toxicity: Rapid plasma infusion can cause tingling around the mouth, muscle cramps, or rarely, heart rhythm changes due to citrate anticoagulant binding calcium.

Serious Complications

TRALI: Can occur with plasma transfusion, causing acute respiratory distress requiring intensive care.

Volume Overload: More common with plasma than platelets due to larger volumes transfused. Requires slower infusion rates in vulnerable patients.

Infectious Transmission: Extremely rare with modern screening, but remains a theoretical risk with any blood product.

Pediatric plasma transfusion requires careful attention to volume and infusion rates to prevent complications.

Platelet Transfusion Recovery Time

Recovery after platelet transfusion varies based on the underlying condition:

Immediate Effects

Platelet counts increase within 1 hour of completion of transfusion. The increment depends on patient size, underlying condition, and antibody status.

Duration of Effect

Transfused platelets typically survive 3-5 days in patients without active bleeding or platelet destruction. Patients with immune-mediated destruction or active consumption may require more frequent transfusions.

Long-Term Recovery

Once the underlying cause resolves (chemotherapy ends, bone marrow recovers, or disease enters remission), patients no longer need platelet transfusions. Natural platelet production resumes, eliminating the need for transfusion.

Multiple Transfusion Scenarios

Patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy may require platelet transfusions 2-3 times weekly for several weeks until bone marrow recovery. This intensive support enables safe completion of cancer treatment.

Plasma Transfusion Recovery Time

Recovery after plasma transfusion depends on the patient’s condition and the reason for the transfusion:

Immediate Effects

Improvement in clotting factors usually begins within a few hours after the transfusion. This helps control bleeding and correct clotting abnormalities.

Duration of Effect

The benefit of plasma transfusion may last 24 to 72 hours, depending on the underlying cause, liver function, and ongoing bleeding or clotting issues.

Long-Term Recovery

Once the underlying condition improves, such as liver function stabilising, clotting factor levels normalising, or the primary disease being treated, plasma transfusions are no longer required, and the body maintains clotting balance on its own.

Multiple Transfusion Scenarios

Patients with severe clotting disorders, liver disease, or those undergoing intensive cancer treatment may need repeated plasma transfusions over a short period. This supportive care helps stabilise the patient and allows safe continuation of therapy.

Cost of Platelet Transfusion in India

Transfusion costs in India remain affordable compared to Western countries while maintaining high safety standards.

Platelet Transfusion Costs

Single Donor Platelets (SDP): ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 (Approx. USD 60 – USD 120) per unit

Random Donor Platelets: ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per unit (Approx. USD 35 – USD 75) (usually need 4-6 units)

HLA-Matched Platelets: ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 ( Approx. USD 180 – USD 300 ) per unit (for alloimmunized patients)

Plasma Transfusion Costs

Fresh Frozen Plasma: ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 (Approx. USD 18 – USD 36) per unit

Typical Transfusion (2-4 units): ₹3,000 to ₹12,000 (Approx. USD 35 – USD 145) per episode

Additional Costs

Blood Bank Processing: ₹500 to ₹1,500 (Approx. USD 6 – USD 18) per unit

Compatibility Testing: ₹500 to ₹1,000 (Approx. USD 6 – USD 12)

Administration Charges: ₹500 to ₹2,000 (Approx. USD 6 – USD 25) per transfusion

Benefits of Proper Transfusion Support

Timely and appropriate transfusions help the body cope better during illness and treatment.

Life-Saving Protection

Platelet and plasma transfusions prevent life-threatening bleeding complications in vulnerable patients, enabling safe cancer treatment and management of blood disorders.

Enables Intensive Treatment

Transfusion support allows oncologists to deliver optimal-dose chemotherapy without compromising safety, improving cancer cure rates.

Improves Quality of Life

Maintaining safe blood counts prevents bleeding symptoms such as bruising, nosebleeds, and fatigue, allowing patients to continue their activities and remain comfortable.

Bridges to Definitive Treatment

Transfusions provide crucial support while awaiting bone marrow transplantation, allowing time for donor search and preparation.

Reduces Hospitalization

Outpatient transfusion programs allow patients to receive necessary support while living at home, reducing healthcare costs and improving family dynamics.

With the proper transfusion support, patients experience safer treatment and smoother recovery.

Why Choose Dr. Satyendra Katewa for Transfusion Therapy?

Dr. Satyendra Katewa provides transfusion therapy with a strong focus on safety, precision, and compassionate patient care.

Expert Haematology Care

As a pediatric haematologist in Delhi with extensive experience, Dr Katewa provides expert management of complex transfusion needs in children and adults with blood cancers and disorders.

Comprehensive Blood Disorder Management

Integration of transfusion support with cancer treatment, bone marrow transplant preparation, and long-term blood disorder management ensures coordinated care.

Child-Focused Approach

Specialised pediatric blood disorder treatment in Delhi includes age-appropriate transfusion protocols, child-friendly facilities, and family-centred care.

Safety-First Protocols

Partnership with accredited blood banks, rigorous compatibility testing, and careful monitoring ensure the highest level of transfusion safety.

Outpatient Transfusion Services

A convenient day care transfusion facility allows most patients to receive platelet and plasma transfusions without overnight hospitalisation.

24/7 Emergency Support

Round-the-clock availability for urgent transfusion needs ensures patients receive timely support during bleeding emergencies.

Personalised Care Plans

Individualised transfusion strategies based on diagnosis, treatment phase, and patient-specific factors optimise outcomes while minimising unnecessary transfusions.

Comprehensive Support Services

Nutritional counselling, psychological support, and financial guidance complement medical care, addressing all aspects of patient and family needs.

Families trust Dr. Katewa for his clinical expertise, compassionate approach, and commitment to providing the safest, most effective transfusion therapy.

Book an Appointment for Platelet or Plasma Transfusion in Delhi

If your child or loved one requires a platelet or plasma transfusion, consult Dr. Satyendra Katewa for expert evaluation and safe transfusion management.

During your consultation, you will receive:

• Comprehensive blood count and coagulation assessment
• Clear explanation of transfusion necessity and expected benefits
• Discussion of transfusion safety measures and potential risks
• Transparent cost information for planned transfusions
• Coordination with accredited blood banks for product availability
• Ongoing monitoring plan and follow-up schedule

Book your appointment today for expert blood transfusions for cancer patients and comprehensive haematology care.

International Patients – Transfusion Support in India

Dr. Satyendra Katewa welcomes international patients requiring transfusion support during cancer treatment or for blood disorders. India’s advanced blood banking system and expert haematology care make it an excellent destination for comprehensive management of blood disorders.

Support for International Families

Our international patient team assists with:

• Medical visa facilitation and documentation
• Coordination with blood banks for timely product availability
• Accommodation recommendations near transfusion facilities
• Precise cost estimates for anticipated transfusion needs
• Communication with home country physicians
• Travel planning around transfusion schedules
• Follow-up care coordination after return home

Contact us to discuss your transfusion needs and care coordination for treatment in India.