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Successful granulocyte apheresis using medium molecular weight hydroxyethyl starch
Mai Nanya1, Kimiko Yurugi1, Itaru Kato2
1Department of Transfusion Medicine and Cell Therapy, Kyoto University Hospital, 54 Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.
International Journal of Hematology
|October 12, 2019
Summary
Medium molecular weight hydroxyethyl starch (HES) with the Spectra Optia system effectively collects granulocytes for transfusion. This method provides a safe and viable alternative when high molecular weight HES is unavailable.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Transfusion Medicine
- Apheresis Technology
Background:
- Granulocyte transfusion (GTX) is crucial for managing severe infections in neutropenic patients.
- High molecular weight hydroxyethyl starch (HES) aids red blood cell sedimentation in apheresis but has limited availability.
- Alternative HES formulations are needed for efficient granulocyte collection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of medium molecular weight HES (130 kDa) combined with the Spectra Optia apheresis system for granulocyte collection.
- To assess the feasibility of this method in settings where high molecular weight HES is not accessible.
Main Methods:
- Granulocyte collection was performed using the Spectra Optia apheresis system with medium molecular weight HES.
- Apheresis procedures were conducted on seven donors over two consecutive days.
- Neutrophil yield and post-transfusion counts were analyzed.
Main Results:
- The mean total neutrophil yield was 5.27 × 10^10 on day 1 and 2.91 × 10^10 on day 2.
- Infusion of Day 1 apheresis products significantly increased neutrophil counts in recipients.
- Day 2 apheresis products were sufficient for maintaining neutrophil counts.
Conclusions:
- Medium molecular weight HES in conjunction with the Spectra Optia system enables efficient granulocyte harvesting.
- This strategy offers a safe and effective clinical practice for GTX, particularly where high molecular weight HES is unavailable.
