Doha, Qatar: Hamad Medical Corporation’s (HMC) Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (DLMP), Division of Transfusion Medicine has introduced Qatar’s first Frozen Packed Red Blood Cell (PRBC) service. This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant leap in ensuring the continuous supply of life-saving blood products for patients with rare blood types and those requiring specialized transfusions.
Frozen Packed Red Blood Cells (PRBCs) are a specific form of blood product used in transfusions. Blood is composed of both liquid (plasma) and solid (cells) elements. PRBCs mainly consist of red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body via a protein called hemoglobin.
To create frozen PRBCs, most of the plasma and other components are removed, leaving a concentrated amount of red blood cells. These cells are then combined with a special protective substance before freezing and stored at extremely low temperatures for up to 30 years. This process ensures that the cells remain viable until thawed and used. Prior to use, the frozen blood is thawed at 37°C, and the glycerol is carefully removed to ensure the blood is safe for transfusion.
