Leukoreduction

Leukoreduction is a medical procedure that reduces the number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in a blood sample. It is commonly used in blood transfusion services to minimize the risk of certain complications associated with transfusion.

Overview

Leukoreduction is performed on blood products such as packed red blood cells and platelet concentrates before they are transfused into patients. The process involves passing the blood product through a filter designed to remove leukocytes. This is typically done in the blood bank after the blood has been collected from a donor but before it is stored in the blood bank inventory.

Benefits

The primary benefit of leukoreduction is the reduction in the risk of febrile non-hemolytic transfusion reactions (FNHTR), which are caused by the body's immune response to leukocytes in the transfused blood. Leukoreduction also reduces the risk of Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) alloimmunization, a condition in which the recipient's immune system develops antibodies against the donor's leukocytes, and Transfusion Associated Graft Versus Host Disease (TA-GVHD), a rare but serious complication of blood transfusion.

Risks

While leukoreduction has many benefits, it is not without risks. The process can lead to a slight reduction in the number of red blood cells and platelets in the blood product, which may affect its efficacy. There is also a small risk of contamination during the process.

See also

• Blood transfusion
• White blood cell
• Febrile non-hemolytic transfusion reactions
• Human Leukocyte Antigen
• Transfusion Associated Graft Versus Host Disease