Abstract
Objective: To review the literature on leukoreduction as a practice to prevent transfusion reactions (RT). Methods: This is a systematic review of studies published in the last 10 years in databases, using appropriate descriptors. Those who did not relate the study objective or if published before 2009 were excluded. Results: Of the 76 articles selected, five were validated. There was a prevalence of scientific production by the United States. All articles agreed with the efficacy of leukoreduction on RT, defending its universal pre-storage use, however, two reported doubt about the use of leukoreduction in cardiac surgeries and about the effective reduction of cytomegalovirus transmission, requiring further studies. One limitation found was the lack of continuity of research due to the high cost of universal leukoreduction. Final considerations: Leukoreduction is an effective method for the prevention of RT, besides reducing the occurrence of alloimmunizations by histocompatibility antigen (HLA), exposure to cytomegalovirus and other communicable diseases via parenteral. A limiting factor was the high cost of the procedure, resulting in unequal use among.