White blood cell transfusion is a medical procedure in which white blood cells (WBCs) are transferred from a healthy donor to a patient who has a deficiency or dysfunction in their own white blood cells. White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, are a crucial component of the immune system that play a vital role in fighting infections and diseases.
The process of white blood cell transfusion involves collecting white blood cells from a compatible donor through a process called leukapheresis. During leukapheresis, the donor's blood is passed through a specialized machine that separates the white blood cells from other blood components, such as red blood cells and platelets. The collected white blood cells are then processed and prepared for transfusion.
White blood cell transfusion is typically performed in cases where the patient's immune system is compromised due to various reasons, such as severe infections, chemotherapy, or certain medical conditions. By replenishing the patient's white blood cell count, the transfusion aims to boost the immune response and aid in fighting off infections.
However, white blood cell transfusion is not without potential risks and complications. These may include allergic reactions, transfusion-related lung injury, and transmission of infectious agents. Therefore, careful donor screening and compatibility testing are necessary to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the transfusion.
Overall, white blood cell transfusion serves as a therapeutic intervention to bolster the immune system and improve the patient's ability to combat infections when their own white blood cell function is impaired.
