Name of the Procedure:

Platelets, HLA-Matched Leukocytes Reduced, Apheresis/Pheresis, Each Unit (P9052)

• Common Name: HLA-Matched Platelet Transfusion
• Medical Term: Platelet Apheresis with Leukocyte Reduction

Summary

Platelet apheresis with HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) matching and leukocyte reduction is a specialized transfusion procedure. It involves collecting platelets from a donor, filtering out most white blood cells (leukocytes), and matching them to the patient's specific HLA type to reduce the risk of immune reactions.

Purpose

• Addresses low platelet counts, usually due to conditions like leukemia, chemotherapy, or aplastic anemia.
• Aims to increase platelet levels in the recipient’s blood, reducing bleeding risks.
• Expected to reduce the likelihood of immune reactions and platelet refractoriness (when the patient’s body does not respond to platelet transfusions).

Indications

• Patients with low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia).
• Those undergoing intensive treatments like chemotherapy or with bone marrow disorders.
• Patients who have developed antibodies against platelets from previous transfusions.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Blood tests and HLA typing are conducted beforehand to ensure compatibility.
• Patients should inform their doctor about any current medications, including anticoagulants.

Procedure Description

1. Donor Selection: A compatible donor is selected based on HLA matching.
2. Collection: Using apheresis, blood is drawn from the donor, and a machine separates platelets from the blood, returning the remaining components to the donor.
3. Leukocyte Reduction: The collected platelets are filtered to remove most leukocytes.
4. Transfusion: The patient receives the filtered, HLA-matched platelets through an intravenous (IV) line.
5. Monitoring: The patient's vital signs are monitored closely throughout the transfusion to watch for any adverse reactions.

Tools/Equipment:

• Apheresis machine
• Leukocyte reduction filters
• IV lines and related supplies

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Not typically required; minor discomfort may occur at IV sites.

Duration

• The platelet collection from the donor takes about 1.5 to 3 hours.
• Transfusion to the patient typically lasts 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

• Usually performed in a hospital or specialized outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Hematologist or transfusion specialist
• Registered nurses
• Apheresis technicians

Risks and Complications

• Common: Mild allergic reactions, fever, chills.
• Rare: Severe allergic reactions, transfusion-related acute lung injury, infections.
• Management: Close monitoring, ready access to emergency drugs and treatments.

Benefits

• Increases platelet count, reducing bleeding risk.
• Immediate effect, beneficial in emergencies.
• Lower risk of immune reactions compared to non-HLA-matched transfusions.

Recovery

• Typically, patients can resume normal activities shortly after the transfusion.
• Post-procedure care includes monitoring platelet count and watching for any signs of complications.
• Follow-up appointments to check overall response and health.

Alternatives

• Random-donor platelet transfusions (higher risk of immune reaction).
• Platelet growth factors (may take longer to show results).
• Bone marrow or stem cell transplant (for underlying conditions, not a direct alternative for immediate platelet needs).
• Pros and Cons: HLA-matched transfusions are more specific and reduce immune reactions but are harder to match and more resource-intensive.

Patient Experience

• Minimal discomfort from the IV insertion.
• Real-time monitoring ensures any issues are promptly managed.
• Post-procedure: Patients might feel temporary fatigue but usually recover quickly.
• Pain management can include over-the-counter pain relief as needed.

This markdown provides a comprehensive overview of Platelet Apheresis with HLA matching and leukocyte reduction, detailing its purpose, process, and patient experience.