Over 95 per cent sensitization against allogeneic leukocytes following single massive blood transfusion

The development and persistence of leukoagglutinating and lymphocytotoxic alloantibodies were systematically studied in 54 patients who had received single massive blood transfusions because of open-heart surgery. Of these patients over 95% were sensitized when tested for both leukoagglutinins and lymphocytotoxins, whereas 74% were found to be immunized when searched for cytotoxic antibodies only. The optimal time for detecting antibodies was 2 weeks after blood transfusions.