Definition: A component obtained by platelet apheresis of a single donor using automated cell separation equipment.

Properties: Depending on method and equipment used, each procedure should give a platelet yield from 200 to 800 x 109. Leucocytes and red cells should also be minimal although much depends on method an equipment used. SDP provides the advantage of collecting platelets from selected donors, to reduce risk of HLA alloimmunisation and for effective treatment of patients already alloimmunised. Reducing the number of donor exposures also reduces risks of viral transmisson.

Methods of preparation: Platelets extracted directly from the donor using an apheresis equipment. This involves the donor having to stay hooked to this equipment for about 2 hours to produce good quality platelets which would still need to be further processed for better quality.

Storage & Stability: Platelets must be stored in plastic bags intended for platelet storage having the characteristic of being permeable to gases for oxygen availability for platelets. During storage pH must remain between 6.8 to 7.4 and they must be continuously agitated in an appropriate equipment, with a temperature of between +20 degrees celcius to +24 degrees celcius. Platelets under the above parameters can be stored for 5 days.