Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Collection

About Stem Cell Collection

Stem cells are immature blood cells. They can become red cells, white cells, or platelets once they mature. The stem cell (or progenitor cell) collection is a portion of the bone marrow transplant process. If you are donating cells for someone else’s use, the procedure remains the same.

About Your Visit

You will register in Outpatient Admitting at 7:30 a.m. and receive directions to our area. When you arrive in our unit, our nursing staff will get you ready and make you comfortable prior to starting the collection. One of our physicians will ask your consent, perform a history and physical, and answer any questions you may have. If you do not have a central catheter, they will discuss options with you. A nurse will draw a blood sample and connect you to the machine that will collect your stem cells.

How We Collect the Cells

We use a special machine to collect stem cells. It sounds like a washing machine on the spin cycle. You will have a catheter that allows us to remove and return your blood at the same time. This process takes about four hours and is completely painless. A nurse will monitor your vital signs frequently. Once the collection is complete, the stem cells are taken to the Stem Cell Lab for processing and freezing. The total amount of blood collected is less than two ounces.

We will call you at home and let you know if you have enough cells or if you need to return for another collection. The number of procedures needed varies with each individual and is determined by your physician.

What You May Feel

Experiences differ, but some common symptoms, known as citrate reactions, are listed below. You may not feel any of these symptoms, or you may have symptoms not listed here.

• Numbness or tingling around the mouth/ nose, hands/fingers, feet/toes
• Leg cramps
• A “vibrating” sensation
• Nausea
• Feeling cold

These symptoms occur because your calcium may become low during the collection. This is often easily corrected by drinking milk or by chewing TUMS®, which are rich in calcium. If symptoms persist, we may give you an IV solution of calcium using your catheter.

Other Symptoms

• Dizziness – You may become dizzy or lightheaded, but this is rare.
• Fatigue – You may feel tired the evening following the collection.

A nurse will be with you at all times and will watch for any symptoms during the collection. A physician will be available if needed. You will be asked frequently if you are feeling different in any way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: May I eat and drink before or during the collection?

A: Yes. We will encourage you to drink fluids (especially liquids high in calcium) before, during, and after the collection.

Q: How are stem cells saved?

A: Your stem cells are frozen in a liquid nitrogen tank which is kept in the Stem Cell Lab area. The tanks have alarm systems and are closely monitored. Your cells will be stored until the time of your transplant.

Q: Will my blood touch the machine?

A: No. Your blood will go into a sterile disposable kit within the machine.

Q: Does someone check to see if the machine is working properly?

A: Yes. Our machines are quality checked and cleaned regularly.

Q: How will I feel after the collection?

A: Most people feel tired, but can resume normal activities after resting. You should plan on having someone drive you home.

Q: Is it okay for me to take my medications?

A: You should be taking Neupogen as prescribed by your health care professional. You will continue to take it until your collection is complete. Continue to take your regular medications unless otherwise instructed by the nurse from our area when she calls prior to your first collection.

For More Information

We want to answer all questions to your satisfaction. If we can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us:

Hemapheresis Service
University Hospital
8C Room 8100
750 East Adams Street
Syracuse, New York 13210

Phone: (315) 464-9022
Voice Mail: (315) 464-6763
Fax: (315) 464-9021
Email: unit8c@upstate.edu