PriMera Scientific Surgical Research and Practice (ISSN: 2836-0028)

Research Article

Volume 6 Issue 2

C-Reactive Protein as a Predictor of Fibrin Formation in Platelet Concentrates: A Prospective Observational Study on Donor Inflammation and Platelet Quality

Aleksandrov RA*, Aleksandrova MA and Georgieva GB

July 30, 2025

Abstract

Background: Fibrin formation in platelet concentrates (PCs) is a common yet underrecognized complication that compromises their clinical utility. This study investigates whether systemic inflammation in blood donors—quantified by C-reactive protein (CRP) levels—is associated with increased risk of fibrin deposition in PCs.

Methods: We conducted a prospective, controlled observational study including 60 standard PCs derived from whole blood. Platelet morphology, fibrin presence, and CRP levels were evaluated at 12 h and 72 h post-production. Phase-contrast microscopy was used to assess platelet activation.

Results: 71.7% (n=43) of PCs showed fibrin at 72 h. In this group, 65.1% of donors had CRP ≥10 µg/L, compared to 29.4% in controls (p = 0.0203). Platelets from fibrin-positive PCs demonstrated pronounced pseudopodia and activation profiles. Fibrin prevalence was higher in autumn-winter, coinciding with increased systemic inflammation due to seasonal infections.

Conclusion: Elevated donor CRP correlates with fibrin formation in PCs. Pre-donation CRP screening is a cost-effective and feasible measure to enhance the quality and usability of PCs.

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