'Agglutination and flocculation' of stem cells collected by apheresis due to cryofibrinogen.

Collection of peripheral stem cells by apheresis is a well-described process. Here, investigations concerning 'agglutination and flocculation' of stem cells collected from two patients are described. In both cases, cryoproteins were observed and cryofibrinogen was identified using high-resolution two-dimensional electrophoresis. In one case, peripheral stem cells were collected after a second course of mobilization, and the cells were immediately washed at 37 degrees C before being frozen, allowing their use, despite the presence of cryofibrinogen. In the other case, 'agglutination' was reversed by warming the bag, and plasma was removed before freezing.

Haemovigilance in a general university hospital: need for a more comprehensive classification and a codification of transfusion-related events.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to analyse the transfusion-related events recorded in a general university hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The method we used was retrospective analysis of the data collected between 1999 and 2003. RESULTS: The incidence of transfusion reactions (n = 394) was 4.19 per 1000 blood products distributed: 59% (n = 231) were febrile non-haemolytic transfusion reactions; 22% (n = 88) were caused by allergy; 5% (n = 21) were caused by bacterial infection; and 14% (n = 54) were classified as other reactions. Platelet concentrates gave rise to a significantly greater number of reactions than erythrocyte concentrates and fresh-frozen plasma. Transfusion errors and near-miss events were also observed and were analysed separately. A series of transfusion-related events, such as haemosiderosis, metabolic disturbances or volume overload, were not reported. CONCLUSIONS: Our experience prompts us to propose a more comprehensive classification and codification of transfusion-related events.