Determinants of peripheral blood count value in long-term survivors of allogeneic hemopoietic stem cell transplantation

Hemopoeitic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients are monitored by regular complete blood picture (CBP). The reference ranges for acceptable values are undefined. We analysed the CBP in 228 stable HSCT survivors (median follow‐up 103 months, range 60–212) without transplant‐related medications and complications. Compared with donors, recipients had lower absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and platelet levels (Plt) and higher mean corpuscular volume (MCV), but comparable hemoglobin (Hb) and absolute lymphocyte count (ALC). There was significant donor–recipient correlation in all CBP parameters (Hb, ALC, ANC, MCV, Plt). Significant correlation was also found between levels of Hb, white cell and Plt among recipients. All counts were higher in patients with longer follow‐up. Donor and recipient gender, age and underlying diagnosis can influence stable CBP values. We conclude that both host and marrow factors influence CBP values in stably engrafted recipients. ‘Abnormal’ CBP values deviating from that in normal populations may not have clinical significance. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.