Extracorporeal photopheresis

Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is a type of photodynamic therapy in which blood is treated with a photosensitizing agent and subsequently irradiated with specific wavelengths of light to kill targeted cells. It is primarily used in the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), and organ transplant rejection.

Procedure

The ECP procedure involves the removal of blood from the patient's body, which is then separated into its individual components. The white blood cells are treated with a photosensitizing agent, usually methoxsalen, and then exposed to ultraviolet A (UVA) light. This process activates the methoxsalen, which then binds to the DNA of the white blood cells, causing cell death. The treated blood is then returned to the patient's body.

Uses

ECP is primarily used in the treatment of CTCL, a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that primarily affects the skin. It is also used in the treatment of GVHD, a complication that can occur after a bone marrow or stem cell transplant, and in the prevention of organ transplant rejection.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ECP include fatigue, headache, and low blood pressure. Rare but serious side effects can include infection, allergic reactions, and damage to the veins.

Research

Research is ongoing into the use of ECP in the treatment of other conditions, including autoimmune diseases and other types of cancer.

See Also

• Photodynamic therapy
• Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
• Graft-versus-host disease
• Organ transplant

Extracorporeal photopheresis Resources
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