Splenic rupture in a parental donor undergoing peripheral blood progenitor cell mobilization

Peripheral blood progenitor cells (PBPCs) are now widely used as a source of progenitor cells for allogeneic transplantation. Recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor is used to mobilize PBPCs for collection by leukapheresis. Although side effects of mobilization are generally benign, adverse effects have been reported. The authors present a case of spontaneous splenic rupture, without splenomegaly, in a parental donor undergoing PBPC mobilization, review the literature regarding this adverse event, and explore issues regarding donor safety.