Successful surgical procedure in a patient of aplastic anemia with platelet refractoriness, using cross-match compatible platelets

This case marks the beginning of issuing cross-matched platelet products in Eastern India. A known case of aplastic anemia, on regular transfusion support, now presented with obstructed ventral periumbilical hernia requiring urgent surgical intervention. Platelet count at presentation was 13,000/μL. Platelet cross-matching was done by solid phase method. Ten units of random donor platelets were crossmatched. Five units were compatible and transfused. Counts rose to 84,000/μL after 1 h. Surgery was completed successfully. Thus, 50% units were compatible. This indicates possible underlying alloimmunization. Rapid count rise enabled completion of this urgent surgery. This rapid rise of platelet count would not have been possible without cross matching. We conclude that platelet cross matching is a powerful tool for alloimmunized patients.