Exposure of stored packed erythrocytes to nitric oxide prevents transfusion-associated pulmonary hypertension.

This study investigated the potential role of of nitric oxide (NO) treatment of stored red blood cells (RBCs) before transfusion in a stable haemodynamic and non-inflammatory animal model. The authors show that pretreatment of older stored RBCs (>40 days) with NO can limit the increase in mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAPm) observed after transfusion. Interestingly, although little discussed in the article, limitation of the increase in PAPm was also obtained after transfusion of fresh RBCs (2 days of storage) without NO. This study adds to current knowlegde on the potential effects of RBC storage.

– Michael Piagnerelli