The influence of leucocytes and plasma on red cell filtration (Red cell deformability)

Abstract

Impaired red cell filterability has been demonstrated in peripheral vascular disease. We have analysed the causes of impaired red cell filterability (using a simple filtration technique). The number of residual white cells in the filtered sample is critical. There was no evidence of white cell retention in the filter. The residual white cell count in the filtered samples was related to the plasma viscosity. The presence of a plasma factor, probably an acute phase reactant, makes the white cells more difficult to remove from whole blood by a standard technique. The white cells are more difficult to remove in patients with severe ischaemia and this therefore delays filtration of blood in these patients.