Plasmapheresis

Plasmapheresis

Plasmapheresis involves extracting, treating, and returning blood plasma from the bloodstream, typically done outside the body in an extracorporeal procedure. It serves various purposes, including plasma collection, preservation, and the production of medications.

The therapy is utilized in treating diverse disorders such as autoimmune diseases like myasthenia gravis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, lupus, and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.

During plasmapheresis, blood is withdrawn via a needle or catheter, and plasma is separated using a cell separator. Three common methods are employed:

- Discontinuous flow centrifugation: A single venous catheter is used to remove a batch of blood, which is then centrifuged to separate plasma.
- Continuous flow centrifugation: Two venous lines are utilized, with continuous spinning to separate plasma.
- Plasma filtration: Also requiring two venous lines, plasma is filtered using standard hemodialysis equipment, requiring minimal blood volume outside the body.

After separation, blood cells are returned to the patient, while the treated plasma is either restored or exchanged with donor plasma in traditional plasmapheresis. An anticoagulant is administered to prevent clotting during the process.

Plasmapheresis finds significant use in autoimmune disorders, where rapid removal of disease-causing autoantibodies is necessary alongside other therapies. It's crucial to note that while plasma exchange therapy helps in short-term relief, long-term management often requires simultaneous medical and immunosuppressive treatments.

Other applications include hyperviscosity syndrome caused by excessive blood proteins. Despite its benefits, plasmapheresis carries potential risks such as bleeding and infection from catheter insertion, as well as clotting of blood outside the body during the procedure.

Plasma donation involves similar screening procedures as whole blood donation to ensure the safety of both the donor and the collected product. The collected plasma undergoes multiple screenings and treatments to eliminate potential viruses, and donors are monitored regularly for health and eligibility. The collected plasma is then processed, fractionated, and utilized in the production of various medications or transfused as Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP).