Plasma exchange

Plasma exchange (also known as plasmapheresis or therapeutic plasma exchange) is a medical procedure in which the blood plasma is separated from the blood cells, and the plasma is then replaced with a replacement solution. This procedure is used to treat a variety of medical conditions, particularly those involving the immune system.

Procedure

The plasma exchange procedure involves the removal of blood from the body, which is then passed through a machine that separates the plasma from the blood cells. The blood cells are then returned to the body, along with a plasma replacement solution. This procedure can be performed in a hospital or outpatient setting, and the duration of the procedure can vary depending on the specific condition being treated.

Uses

Plasma exchange is used to treat a variety of medical conditions, particularly those involving the immune system. These conditions include Guillain-Barré syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, Myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome, and Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. It is also used in the treatment of certain types of vasculitis, multiple sclerosis, and Goodpasture's syndrome.

Risks and complications

As with any medical procedure, plasma exchange carries certain risks and potential complications. These can include reactions to the plasma replacement solution, infection, bleeding, and changes in blood pressure. In rare cases, serious complications such as anaphylaxis or pulmonary embolism can occur.

See also

• Apheresis
• Blood donation
• Blood transfusion

References

Plasma exchange Resources
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