Granulocyte transfusions in leukopenic dogs: in vivo and in vitro function of granulocytes obtained by continuous-flow filtration leukopheresis.

The present studies were carried out to (1) evaluate a leukoadhesive technique for obtaining granulocytes for transfusion, (2) assess the granulocytes by in vitro techniques, and (3) determine the efficacy of granulocyte transfusion in preventing sepsis in leukopenic dogs. Dogs were rendered transiently leukopenic (<500 per cu mm) by intravenous cyclophosphamide, 40 mg/kg. Quantitative and qualitative blood cultures were obtained from all animals until death or hematologic recovery. Granulocytes were obtained on nylon filters by a continuous flow system and eluted with an ACD plasma saline solution. Granulocyte function was studied in vitro by chemotaxis, phagocytosis, intracellular killing, and electron microscopy. In vivo studies consisted of the measurement of granulocyte increments in transfused leukopenic dogs, T of infused granulocytes, and protection of transfused dogs from septicemic episodes. Eluted granulocytes, when cornpored to normal controls, showed reduction in in vitro functions. These functions improved in granulocytes isolated posttransfusion from recipient dogs. An average of 3 x 1010 granulocytes could be obtained during a 1-hr leukopheresis of normal donors. Increments in recipient dogs averaged 2590 per cu mm. Five nontransfused leukopenic dogs developed septicemia and died within 7 days. Six dogs were treated with infusions of granulocytes. Three recovered completely, and three died of thrombocytopenic hemorrhage with negative blood cultures. One dog showed a transiently positive blood culture that became negative following transfusion. Septic episodes were significantly reduced in granulocyte transfused dogs (p < 0.01). It was concluded that continuous-flow leukofiltration yielded granulocytes in sufficient number and with adequate functional capabilities to provide significant protection against septic death in the leukopenic host.