Transfusion
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Review Meta Analysis
Transfusion of older stored blood and risk of death: a meta-analysis.
Blood for transfusion is stored for up to 42 days. Older blood develops lesions and accumulates potentially injurious substances. Some studies report increasing toxicity as blood ages. We assessed the safety of transfused older versus newer stored blood. ⋯ Based on available data, use of older stored blood is associated with a significantly increased risk of death.