Immunoglobulin G levels during collection of large volume plasma for fractionation

Background

There is a need of comprehensive work dealing with the quality of plasma for fractionation with respect to the IgG content as today most plasma derivates are used to treat patients with immunodeficiencies and autoimmune disorders. Therefore, a prospective study was carried out to analyse IgG levels before plasmapheresis and every 200 ml collected plasma.

Materials and methods

Fifty-four experienced plasmapheresis donors were recruited for subsequent 850 ml plasmapheresis using the Aurora Plasmapheresis System. Donor? peripheral blood counts were analysed before and after plasmapheresis using an electronic counter. Total protein, IgG and citrate were measured turbidometrically before, during and after apheresis as well as in the plasma product. Furthermore, platelets, red and white blood cells were analysed as parameters of product quality.

Results

An average of 2751 ± 247 ml blood was processed in 47 ± 6 min. The collected plasma volume was 850 ± 1 mL and citrate consumption was 177 ± 15 mL. A continuous drop of donors’ IgG level was observed during plasmapheresis. The drop was 13% of the IgG baseline value at 800 mL collected plasma. Total protein, IgG and cell counts of the plasma product met current guidelines of plasma for fractionation.

Conclusion

Donors’ IgG levels during apheresis showed a steady decrease without compromising the quality of plasma product.