Don’t routinely transfuse platelets for patients with chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia if the platelet count is greater than 10 X 109/L in the absence of bleeding.

A platelet count of 10 X 109/L or greater usually provides adequate hemostasis. Platelet transfusions are associated with adverse events and risks. Considerations in the decision to transfuse platelets include the cause of the thrombocytopenia, comorbid conditions, symptoms of bleeding, risk factors for bleeding, and the need to perform an invasive procedure.

Sources:

Estcourt L, et al. Prophylactic platelet transfusion for prevention of bleeding in patients with haematological disorders after chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012 May 16;(5):CD004269. PMID: 22592695.

British Committee for Standards in Haematology, Blood Transfusion Task Force. Guidelines for the use of platelet transfusions. Br J Haematol. 2003 Jul;122(1):10-23. PMID: 12823341.

Slichter SJ, et al. Dose of prophylactic platelet transfusions and prevention of hemorrhage. N Engl J Med. 2010 Feb 18;362(7):600-13. PMID: 20164484.

Szczepiorkowski ZM, et al. Transfusion guidelines: when to transfuse. Hematology Am Soc Hematol Educ Program. 2013;2013:638-44. PMID: 24319244.