Plasmapheresis is a medical procedure that involves removing blood from the body, separating the plasma (the liquid component of blood) from the blood cells, and then returning the blood cells back to the body. 

What is this procedure used?

This procedure is used to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Autoimmune disorders, such as myasthenia gravis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and lupus.
• Blood disorders, such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS).
• Neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, immune-mediated encephalitis, and some cases of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP).

How is plasmapheresis performed?

During plasmapheresis, a patient’s blood is removed through a catheter placed in a vein in the arm. The plasma is then separated from the blood cells using a machine that filters it from the blood. The plasma can be replaced with fresh frozen plasma (FFP), albumin, or a plasma substitute. The treated blood cells are then returned to the patient’s body. The procedure usually takes 2-4 hours, and it may need to be repeated several times over several days or weeks.

Is it safe?

Plasmapheresis is considered a safe procedure, but as with any medical procedure, it can have some risks. Some of the possible risks and side effects include:

• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Allergic reactions to the replacement fluids
• Hematoma (blood clot) at the catheter insertion site
• Infection at the catheter insertion site

Get in touch with us if you have any questions regarding plasmapheresis treatment, as it’s a complex procedure that is not suitable for every patient. Our healthcare provider will be able to assess if this treatment is appropriate for you and if so, what is the best way to go about it.