Nonfatal graft-versus-host disease occurring after transfusion with leukocytes and platelets obtained from normal donors

There have been two previous reports of fatal graft-versus-host (GVH) disease following transfusion of leukocytes from normal donors for the supportive care of leukemic patients. We have reported a nonfatal case of GVH disease in a child with acute monoblastic leukemia who received leukocyte and platelet transfusions from normal donors. The dose of lymphocytes contained in both leukocyte and platelet concentrates obtained with a semicontinuous-flow cell separator is sufficient to cause GVH disease. Irradiation of all blood products administered to severely immunocompromised and myelosuppressed patients should be considered.