PBPC collections standardversus LVL

Overview

The authors compared the results of standard and large-volume leukapheresis (LVL) separations inpatients with a good response to mobilization therapy as well as in patients with an inadequate effectof mobilization. These comparisons should help to evaluate the effectiveness of separation proceduresand the assessment of indication criteria for different procedures. With regard to the higher yields ofthe LVL technique it would be useful to apply LVL separation always when the patient is able to toleratethese procedures. LVL procedures should be also preferred in patients with an inadequate effect ofmobilization where this technique is at present the only possibility how to achieve at least the minimalrecommended dose of CD34+ cells for transplantation. The LVL technique is suitable also underconditions when an exceptionally high dose of CD 34+ is required either to ensure tandem transplan-tation of the patient or before subsequent manipulations with a PBPC graft when significant losses ofthe original cell content occur. The higher efficiency of the LVL technique makes it possible to reducethe number of separations needed to obtain an adequate amount of progenitor cells. This reduces thetime of administration of cytokines, which are given to patients daily during mobilization and throughout the period of separation.

Key words:
haematopoietic progenitor cells from peripheral blood (PBPC), CD 34+ cells, separation ofPBPC