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Routine filtration of hematopoietic stem cell products: the time has arrived
Author(s) -
Paulson Kristjan,
Gilpin Scott G.,
Shpiruk Tanner A.,
Anjos Karla,
Tulloch Marie,
Giftakis Angleine,
Blankstein Anna R.,
Szwajcer David,
Wall Donna A.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
transfusion
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.045
H-Index - 132
eISSN - 1537-2995
pISSN - 0041-1132
DOI - 10.1111/trf.13169
Subject(s) - filtration (mathematics) , stem cell , hematopoietic stem cell , haematopoiesis , potency , medicine , andrology , chemistry , biology , microbiology and biotechnology , biochemistry , statistics , mathematics , in vitro
BACKGROUND Most blood products are infused at the time of transfusion through a standard blood filter, designed to capture macroaggregates and cellular debris that might be harmful to the patient if infused. Hematopoietic stem cell products are not universally filtered, likely due to concern about loss of viable stem cells in the filtration process. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS We conducted a two‐phase study to better understand the safety of routine filtration. First, surplus cryopreserved stem cell products were thawed and filtered, with markers of viability and potency measured. Second, routine filtration was implemented as part of routine practice at our center, and date of neutrophil and platelet (PLT) recovery was compared to historical controls. RESULTS In the first phase, there was no difference seen in any markers of viability or potency for products after routine filtration. Based on those results, routine filtration was implemented. There was no difference in neutrophil or PLT engraftment. Thus, in this study, routine filtration did not impact the number of viable stem cells and did not delay engraftment. CONCLUSION Given the very real harm posed by infusion of macroaggregates and cellular debris, and no clear disadvantage to filtration, routine filtration of stem cell products should be considered the standard of care.