Journal
BRITISH JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY
Volume 164, Issue 3, Pages 342-351Publisher
WILEY-BLACKWELL
DOI: 10.1111/bjh.12629
Keywords
plasma exchange; plasmapheresis; apheresis; mechanism of action
Categories
Ask authors/readers for more resources
The initial description of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) in an animal model was published almost 100years ago. Since that time, this treatment has been applied to a wide variety of diseases but limited research has been published examining the mechanisms of action of TPE. The therapeutic effects of TPE could include the removal of pathological substances from the blood, such as monoclonal paraproteins and autoantibodies, as well as the replacement of deficient plasma components when plasma is used as a replacement fluid. Beyond these potential mechanisms, other possible mechanisms include possible alterations in lymphocyte proliferation and function that could sensitize these cells to immunosuppressant and chemotherapeutic agents and alterations in the immune system including changes in B and T cell numbers and activation, increased T suppressor function, and alteration in T-helper cell type 1/2 (Th1/Th2) ratio. Much remains unknown about the mechanisms of action of TPE, indicating a need for basic research into this therapy.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available