Current issues in transfusion therapy

Many factors have stimulated a recent renewal of interest in indications for and use of blood components, including red blood cells, platelets, fresh-frozen plasma, cryoprecipitate, and granulocyte concentrates. Laboratory test results often provide helpful guidelines for the decision to use blood components. In this era of cost consciousness, the most important consideration still is to treat the patient in the most expedient and beneficial way. A conservative approach with an emphasis on high-quality medical practice is to choose and use blood components with consideration of both clinical information and laboratory findings.