Removal of Leukocytes from Whole Blood and Erythrocyte Suspensions by Filtration through Cotton Wool

Units of packed red cells, derived from CPD blood, were stored for 2 or 7 days at 2°C. Using the filtration method described earlier, practically all leukocytes were removed. After filtration, the erythrocyte suspensions were again stored for 2 or 7 days at 2°C. The red cells were then labelled with Na2 61CrO4 and infused into the original donors. The survival of the red cells was determined 24 and 48 h after infusion. Comparison to the data obtained after transfusion of labelled but unfiltered packed cells derived from CPD blood and stored for 14 or 17 days in PVC bags showed no differences in viability.