The use of G-CSF in normal neutrophil donors

The efficacy of neutrophil transfusion therapy in the treatment of neutropenia-associated infection is most likely dependent on the dose of neutrophils provided. Stimulation of neutrophil donors with G-CSF, with or without corticosteroids, causes marked donor neutrophilia and greatly increases the number of neutrophils collected by leukapheresis. Transfusion of these cells into severely neutropenic patients results in substantial increases in the patient's neutrophil count, levels which are sustained for 24 hours. These cells are capable of migrating to extravascular sites. These transfusion results are in marked contrast to those observed when fewer cells are administered and have led to great enthusiasm for this therapy on the part of many investigators. In spite of these preliminary encouraging results, the determination of clinical efficacy must await the results of large clinical trials.