Clinical experience with transfusion of granulocytes obtained by continuous flow filtration leukopheresis.

Granulocytes obtained by continuous flow filtration leukopheresis (CFFL) were transfused to 21 patients on 131 occasions. An average of 28.2 times 10-9 granulocytes were administered per transfusion. These cells were more than 90 per cent viable by dye exclusion, ingested latex particles normally and had almost normal bactericidal activity. Migration to skin windows was demonstrated on four of six attempts, but 51-Cr-labeling studies failed to show localization in infected areas on six occasions. Post-transfusion granulocyte count increments averaged 225/mul and were transient. Significant transfusion reactions occurred during 35 transfusions to 13 patients. Reactions occurred in some patients without demonstrable alloimmunization and after six infusions of HL-A identical or compatible cells. Definite clinical improvement was noted in three recipients. Stabilization of infection with patient survival occurred nine times, and progression of infection with death eight times. Granulocytes obtained by CFFL are viable and functional. Their transfusion is not without risk and must still be considered an investigative procedure of suggestive but as yet unproved clinical efficacy.