Harvesting of granulocytes using a hydroxyethyl starch solution.

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Component therapy requires improved methods for platelet and granulocyte concentrate acquisition.
• Single-donor sourcing is preferred to prevent multiple sensitizations.
• Granulocyte separation from red blood cells is challenging due to similar specific gravities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an effective method for obtaining platelet and granulocyte concentrates from single donors.
• To improve the efficiency and safety of component therapy.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a solution of hydroxyethyl starch (HES), distilled water, and sodium citrate as an anticoagulant.
• Employed the Haemonetic No. 30 Cell Separator for rapid separation.
• Investigated ABO, Rh, and HL-A compatibility between donor and recipient.

Main Results:

• Achieved an average collection of 49% of available granulocytes and 82% of available platelets.
• Demonstrated satisfactory yields from single donors, repeatable within a month.
• Confirmed the effectiveness of HES in enhancing granulocyte separation.

Conclusions:

• The described method provides a satisfactory and repeatable yield of platelet and granulocyte concentrates from single donors.
• The use of HES and the Haemonetic Cell Separator offers an efficient approach to component preparation.
• Donor-recipient compatibility (ABO, Rh, HL-A) likely enhances the viability and safety of the procedure.