A prototype of a cross-flow membrane plasmapheresis system was tested for its safety and efficacy in normal donors. 550 ml of plasma can be harvested in less than 1 h. The procedure appears to be safe for the donor. No significant alterations in donor hematological, coagulation, or biochemical values were obtained after the procedure compared to the predonation levels. Changes in the classical and alternate complement pathways were studied serially by analysis of functional hemolytic titers, C(3) and C(4) levels, and C(3) and factor B cleavage products. No firm evidence of complement activation by the polysulfone filtration cell membrane was found.

11 volunteers who had donated white blood cells or platelets more than 50 times over a 5- to 9-year period were studied to determine whether any adverse consequences of many cytaphereses could be detected. Among the donors no significant differences were found in 18 hematological and biochemical parameters when compared to a group ofageand sex-matched nondonor controls. Despite extensive cumulative lymphocyte losses sustained by these donors, the ratio of T, B, helper and suppressor cells has been maintained within the normal range. No detrimental effects of multiple cytapheresis on the donors’ health has been demonstrated to date.