[Studies of the possibility of preservation of leukocyte concentrates].

The authors tried to explain whether granulocytes obtained by sedimentation on dextran can be stored, under what conditions, and for how long time. For this purpose leukocyte concentrated were stored at 4-6 degrees C and 20-24 degrees C for up to 48 hours, and the count and percent proportions of leucocytes, granulocyte viability, their phagocytic index, chemotactic ability and ATP content were determined. The investigations demonstrated a progressing decrease of the biological viability of granulocytes after 24 hours, and a further decrease after 48 hours. Particularly pronounced and early changes were noted in the chemotactic activity and ATP content. A beneficial effect was noted of higher storage temperature (20-24 degrees C) on the maintenance of chemotactic activity. The other parameters were not temperature-dependent. It seems that under such conditions leucocyte concentrates should be transfused preferably immediately after their preparation.