Adverse effects of granulocyte donations.

Various reactions occur during cytapheresis by either intermittent or continuous flow centrifugation, because of the nature of the procedures themselves and because of the exposure of the donor to steroids, macromolecular agents, anticoagulants, and saline. Most reactions are vasovagal (commoner in intermittent flow procedures) and citrate-related (commoner in continuous flow). Only very rarely do these require the procedure to be stopped. Other less common reactions are discussed. In addition to actual reactions, blood component depletion may occur, especially with frequently repeated procedures in the same donor. Red cell, platelet, and plasma depletion can all force limitation of the frequency of cytapheresis. While most reactions are of little consequence, they can cause procedural failure or refusal of a donor to permit continuation of cytapheresis, and can interfere with donor recruitment.