Therapeutic plasma exchange

Types, techniques and indications in internal medicine

Abstract

Plasmapheresis is an extracorporeal procedure by which the patient"(TM)s blood is separated into its components: plasma and cellular elements. It represents a variety of apheresis, and its main objective is to remove specific elements from plasma, which are considered mediators of pathological processes. There are 2 methods of plasmapheresis: plasmapheresis with centrifugation devices, which requires complicated equipment commonly used in blood banks, and plasmapheresis with highly permeable filter, which is also carried out in equipment exclusively designed for the purpose. This equipment is difficult to obtain. Plasmapheresis with highly permeable filters adapted to standard hemodialysis equipment is a simple, low-cost therapeutic option that can be put into practice by the medical and paramedical staff working in renal units. Based on our experience of 16 years practicing this procedure, we present our recommendations on how to perform it, as well as technical details and an approach on how to handle the complications that may arise.