What are the proper storage requirements for granulocyte concentrates?

The proper storage requirements for granulocyte concentrates are best characterized by maintaining them at a temperature of 20-24°C. Granulocyte concentrates, which are a type of leukocyte transfusion product, have specific storage needs to ensure their viability and functionality.

Storing them at this ambient temperature helps maintain their metabolic activity and function, which is crucial considering that granulocytes are short-lived cells. This temperature range allows for optimal conditions that prevent the degradation of cell activity and promotes the survival of the granulocytes until they are transfused into a recipient.

In the context of blood component storage, other temperature ranges such as 2-6°C or -20°C are applicable to different blood products, such as red blood cells or cryopreserved plasma, but they do not suit granulocyte concentrates. Keeping granulocytes at lower temperatures can impair their function, while freezing them at -20°C would lead to cellular damage and loss of viability. Therefore, maintaining the appropriate storage temperature of 20-24°C is essential for maximizing the effectiveness of granulocyte concentrates in clinical settings.