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

Using the filtration method described earlier, leukocytes were removed from units of fresh whole blood and erythrocyte suspensions (hematocrit 50%). After filtration, the units were stored for one or two weeks. Units of whole blood and erythrocyte concentrates were stored for periods up to three weeks, the leukocytes were then removed by filtration, and the units were stored for another week. During the storage period, the following parameters were measured: pH and concentrations of ATP + ADP, 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate, hemoglobin and potassium (Hb and K+ in the cell‐free supernatant). The parameters used in the present study indicate that removal of leukocytes by filtration did not cause significant alteration to stored whole blood and erythrocyte concentrates, compared to unfiltered blood stored for the same time.