WBC reduction filtration efficacy performed at varying time intervals post-collection.

BACKGROUND

A multisite blood center experienced unacceptable post-leukoreduction filtration white blood cell (WBC) counts at a few centers. Since prefiltration storage time and temperature were suspect, whole blood (WB) units were stored in transport shippers for at least 2 hours, cooling toward 1-6 ° C, before filtration. This study compared the effect of storage times in transport shippers on the residual WBC counts of leukoreduced units.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Collection and filtration of WB units were accomplished with the use of the Fenwal Express System with Integral Sepacell RZ-2000 WB Leukocyte Reduction Filter. Units were collected and placed in transport shippers containing ice. Leukoreduction filtration was performed at designated intervals post-collection. Acceptable leukoreduction was defined as < 5 × 10(6) residual WBC.

RESULTS

Fifty donor units were selected randomly over 3 months. Units were held in transport shippers, and WBC reduction was performed at designated post-collection intervals. Storage times ranged from 28 to 458 minutes. All residual WBC counts were acceptable.

CONCLUSION

Storage time of WB units in transport shippers did not play a role in the efficacy of the leukoreduction. This study demonstrated the 2-hour storage time before leukoreduction filtration could be eliminated resulting in time savings and increased efficacy in the component production laboratory.