Collection of Granulocytes for Transfusion

Abstract

When [human] granulocytes [polymorphonuclear leukocytes] were collected by discontinuous-flow centrifugation or filtration leukapheresis, lysozyme was released. More lysozyme was released during the filtration procedure than during the centrifugation procedure. A small amount of red cell lysis occured during the centrifugation but not the filtration procedure. A rise in lactate dehydrogenase levels consonant with the amount of hemolysis was observed. Granulocytes collected by filtration or discontinuous-flow centrifugation apparently undergo degranulation but not lysis sufficient to cause cytoplasmic enzyme release during the donation.