STABILITY OF HEMOGLOBIN SOLUTION DURING EXTENDED STORAGE

  • 1 January 1978
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 92  (6) , 946-952
Abstract
Hb [human] solution, proposed as a blood substitute, must be stable for a long period of time to be stockpiled and be readily available when massive clinical transfusions are required. Hb solutions, prepared by crystallization and maintained in blood bags under sterile conditions, were stored at -20.degree., 4.degree. and 25.degree. C. At several intervals, methemoglobin content, P50 [O2 affinity], n values, osmolality, O2 capacity, Na, K and pH were assayed. Solutions maintained at -20.degree. C demonstrated no alterations in these parameter after 2 yr of storage. Solutions kept at 4.degree. C remained stable for 12 mo. After 12 mo. and especially after 18 mo., deterioration was evident in the refrigerator-stored solutions, as demonstrated by an increase in methemoglobin content and a decrease in P50. Attempts to store Hb in a liquid form at room temperature without alterations in structure and function of Hb were unsuccessful. The characteristics of Hb prepared from fresh or outdated blood were essentially the same.