[Production of rejuvenated and stable, leukocyte depleted erythrocyte concentrates using the heated centrifugation...

We report on an alternative to filtration for the preparation of leukocyte-poor red cell concentrates (LP-RCC). It is based on the method of Schneider. Using RCC with buffy coat it is comparably effective in leukocyte reduction [98.3 +/- 1.0%, (3.7 +/- 2.6) x 10(6) leukocytes] and more effective in platelet reduction (96.9 +/- 2.5%). Addition of PAGGS-M before heating (30 min, 37 degrees C) as well as after preparation significantly reduces hemolysis (free hemoglobin, LDH, HBDH) and improves the quality of the LP-RCC (ATP, 2,3-DPG) during storage for 24 h after preparation. LP-RCCs prepared with PAGGS-M after 6-day storage show still better quality than before preparation and about the same quality as LP-RCCs 24 h after conventional preparation with saline solution. In conclusion, by use of PAGGS-M and sterile docking LP-RCCs of adequate quality for 6-day storage can be prepared, improving the supply of the patients concerned.