What is the optimum storage temperature for Red Blood Cells?

The optimum storage temperature for Red Blood Cells is 4 ˚C. At this temperature, Red Blood Cells can be preserved effectively for transfusion purposes while minimizing damage to the cell membranes and reducing the risk of hemolysis. Keeping Red Blood Cells at this temperature helps maintain their viability and functionality, allowing for proper oxygen transport once transfused into a patient.

In blood banking, maintaining a controlled temperature is critical for ensuring the integrity of the blood components. The icebox temperature of approximately 4 ˚C is standard practice for the short-term storage of Red Blood Cells, enabling them to be stored for up to 42 days with adequate preservation.

The other temperature options provided are not suitable for the storage of Red Blood Cells. Temperatures like -80 ˚C, -20 ˚C, and -12 ˚C would lead to freezing, causing ice crystal formation within the cells, which can severely damage their structure and function, rendering them unusable for transfusion.