Apheresis

Apheresis is a medical procedure that involves the separation and removal of specific components from a person’s blood while returning the remaining blood back to the individual. This process is often performed using a machine that utilizes centrifugation or filtration techniques to isolate particular blood constituents, such as plasma, platelets, or white blood cells.

Key Characteristics

Definition: This term comes from the Greek word aphairesis, meaning “a taking away.” It refers to the withdrawal of blood from a donor or patient, followed by the removal of one or more blood components.

Types :

• Plasmapheresis: Removal of plasma from the blood, often used to treat autoimmune diseases by eliminating harmful antibodies.
• Leukapheresis: Separation and removal of white blood cells, commonly used in treating conditions like leukemia.
• Erythrocytapheresis: Removal of red blood cells, utilized in conditions such as sickle cell disease.
• Thrombocytapheresis: Removal of platelets, often performed for patients with elevated platelet counts.
• LDL Apheresis: Removal of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia.

Indications for Use: Apheresis is employed for various medical conditions, including:

• Autoimmune disorders
• Blood cancers (e.g., lymphoma)
• Hyperlipidemia
• Sickle cell disease
• Graft-versus-host disease

Procedure Overview: During apheresis, blood is drawn from a vein and processed through an apheresis machine. The machine separates the desired component based on its density and returns the remaining blood components back to the patient.

Risks and Complications: While generally considered safe, apheresis can have risks such as infection at the catheter site, changes in electrolyte levels, and reactions to anticoagulants used during the procedure.

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References

For further reading, you can refer to the following sources:

1. Wikipedia
   This entry provides a comprehensive overview of apheresis, including its definition, types, and medical applications.
   DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2013.05.029
2. MSD Manual Professional Edition
   This article discusses therapeutic apheresis and its role in treating various disorders through the separation of blood components.
   DOI: 10.1002/jca.22043
3. Cleveland Clinic
   This resource outlines how apheresis is performed and its applications in treating medical conditions.
   DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2009.02.001