Preparation of leucocyte poor blood for transfusion

Three methods for the preparation of leucocyte poor red cells for transfusion have been evaluated. A new filtration (IMUGARD) method produced an easily prepared high quality leucocyte-poor preparation but which was not suitable for prolonged storage. A simple centrifugation method was suitable for the preparation of a sterile long life leucocyte-poor preparation and could be used for the majority of patients. A dextran sedimentation method was efficient in leucocyte removal but with the loss of a significant proportion of red cells.