Granulocyte transfusion

Granulocyte transfusion is a medical procedure that involves the transfusion of granulocytes, a type of white blood cell, from a donor to a recipient. This procedure is typically used to treat or prevent infections in patients with neutropenia, a condition characterized by a low number of neutrophils, the most common type of granulocyte.

Indications

Granulocyte transfusion is indicated for patients with severe neutropenia who are experiencing recurrent or persistent infections despite appropriate antibiotic therapy. It may also be used prophylactically in patients with expected prolonged neutropenia.

Procedure

The granulocytes used in the transfusion are typically collected from a donor through a process called apheresis. The donor is often given a medication to increase the number of granulocytes in their blood before the collection. The collected cells are then transfused into the recipient.

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, granulocyte transfusion carries some risks. These may include transfusion reaction, transmission of infectious diseases, and graft-versus-host disease. The risk of these complications can be minimized through careful donor selection and screening.

Efficacy

The efficacy of granulocyte transfusion is still a topic of ongoing research. Some studies have shown a reduction in infection-related mortality, while others have not found a significant benefit. The procedure's efficacy may depend on factors such as the patient's underlying condition and the severity of their neutropenia.

See Also

• Neutropenia
• Apheresis
• Transfusion reaction
• Graft-versus-host disease

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