Leukapheresis can be used to reduce an excessively highwhite blood cell (WBC) countcaused by diseases likeleukemia.
Verywell / Hilary Allison
Purpose of Leukapheresis
White blood cells are an important part of theimmune system.
Others have a “memory” and can keep watch for the return of disease-causing organisms.
Verywell / Hilary Allison
Leukapheresis is often used before CLL chemotherapy begins.
This helps lower the risk of leukostasis and complications such as heart failure or breathing problems.
CAR T-cell therapy is currently used to help fight certain cancers.
The white blood cells harvested for this procedure are calledT-cells.
These are cells tasked with recognizing disease-causing invaders and instigating an immune response.
The warnings inform providers and patients of the potential risk of these therapies causing secondary cancer.
Granulocytopenia
Leukapheresis may be used on rare occasions to treat people with severegranulocytopenia.
This helps reduce the risk ofgraft-versus-host-diseasein which the donor’s cells attack the recipient’s tissues.
Granulocyte transfusions are considered controversial and are only used as a last resort.
Possible Risks of Leukapheresis
As with all medical procedures, leukapheresis carries certain risks.
Most of them are relatively mild.
Leukapheresis is generally considered safe and would not be recommended unless there is a medical need.
Leukapheresis is typically performed in a hospital or specialized facility equipped with an apheresis machine.
Somecomprehensive cancer centersinclude them as part of their in-office services.
Special Preparations
Leukapheresis typically involves the placement of an intravenous (IV) line in your arm.
This is done in advance of leukapheresis and takes between 45 to 60 minutes to perform.
You will also be screened for infectious diseases includingHIVandhepatitis Cseveral days in advance.
Caffeine should be avoided as it promotes urination and can reduce the relative pressure in your veins.
This includes acomplete blood count (CBC)and ablood calcium test.
Be sure to go to the bathroom before the procedure begins.
You should not feel anything during leukapheresis.
If you experience numbness or a tingling sensation, let the nurse know.
Once the nurse is assured that you are OK, you’re able to leave.
It is not uncommon to feel tired after leukapheresis.
To get back on your feet faster, limit your activities for the first 12 to 24 hours.
If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, lie down and elevate your feet until the feeling passes.
It also helps to keep yourself well hydrated.
If leukapheresis is used for an autologous transfusion, the white blood cells will be banked until needed.
A preservative solution is typically added to the blood to extend its shelf life.
(Provenge therapy typically takes three days before the altered cells can be transfused).
Leukapheresis is generally safe and causes minimal discomfort.
The procedure is similar to that of giving a blood donation, with similar risks.
American Society for Apheresis.New qualification in apheresis (QIA).
2016;10(1):93-7. doi:10.4103/0973-6247.164273
