Abstract

GOMEZ ORTIZ, Mauricio Efraín et al. Plasmapheresis and therapeutic plasma exchange in autoimmune diseases: indications, complications and outcomes. A description of a case series. Rev.Colomb.Reumatol. [online]. 2014, vol.21, n.3, pp.133-135. ISSN 0121-8123.

Background: Therapeutic plasma exchange and plasmapheresis are procedures that allow the removal of harmful macromolecules, and are indicated in some autoimmune disorders, when life or vital organs are in danger. Objectives and Methods: To describe the experience with the use of therapeutic plasmapheresis and plasma exchange in autoimmune diseases in a tertiary reference university hospital. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted on a series of cases. Results: Of the 93 patients included, 67 had autoimmune diseases: neurological (66%), hematological (18%), and rheumatic (12%). A favorable response was observed in 82% of the group (61% complete and 21% partial). Overall mortality was 6%. In the subgroup of rheumatology diseases, the most frequent indications were: systemic lupus erythematosus and vasculitis associated with antibodies against neutrophil cytoplasm (37.5 % each) for respiratory or neurological involvement. The most important sequelae were neurological and renal. No adverse events were reported in 63% of the subjects. Conclusions: Patients receiving therapeutic plasmapheresis or plasma exchange in autoimmune diseases with a critical life-threatening condition or a vital organ involvement had a favorable response that resulted in better short-term survival. These therapies are, generally, well tolerated. Studies with greater methodological soundness, especially in rheumatic diseases, are required.

Keywords : Plasmapheresis; Plasma Exchange; Autoimmune Disease; Rheumatic Disease.

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