[Hematological changes induced by erythrocytapheresis].

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine

Background:

• Automated cell separators (apheresis) have advanced, but their impact on donor hematological indices is understudied.
• Erythrocytapheresis is a specific apheresis procedure requiring evaluation of its effects on donors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and quantify potential hematologic changes in donors undergoing erythrocytapheresis.
• To assess the impact of erythrocytapheresis on key blood components in healthy donors.

Main Methods:

• Evaluation of 30 healthy adult donors undergoing erythrocytapheresis using automated equipment.
• Analysis of hematologic measurements including hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cell counts, and platelets before and after the procedure.

Main Results:

• Significant decreases observed in hemoglobin (p <0.0001), hematocrit (p <0.0001), leukocytes (p <0.0001), and platelets (p <0.0001).
• A significant decrease was also noted in lymphocytes (p = 0.0267).
• No significant changes were found in segmented neutrophils, monocytes, eosinophils, or basophils post-procedure.

Conclusions:

• Erythrocytapheresis leads to significant hematological changes in donors, affecting both red and white blood cells.
• Despite observed drops, donors did not exhibit clinical symptoms of anemia or thrombocytopenia.
• Further multicenter studies are recommended to establish donor safety guidelines and assess suitability, especially with increasing double product apheresis collections.