Transient Wavy Collection Trend in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Apheresis: A Rare and Underreported Occurrence

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a key therapeutic approach for various malignancies in recent years. Peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cells are typically collected using the apheresis technique following mobilization. However, during the collection process various challenges may arise. Here we report a rare occurrence during stem cell collection, where the collection trend graph exhibited a persistent wavy pattern throughout most of the procedure. The patient was found to be dehydrated on examination and was hydrated with normal saline IV, after which the wavy pattern resolved. The cells started collecting from the same collection preference that was set by the operator and the green diamonds, which depict cells aligned in a straight line. This is the first documented report of a wavy interface pattern during stem cell collection. This report contributes to the existing literature and may provide valuable insights for troubleshooting similar occurrences in future cases.