Plasmapheresis
Plasma Filtration Technology Plasmapheresis
A therapeutic plasma separation and filtration process designed to selectively remove targeted substances from plasma. Treated plasma and blood components are then returned to the body under the supervision of an experienced medical team.
What Is Plasmapheresis?
Plasmapheresis is a therapeutic process in which plasma is separated from the cellular components of the blood and passed through a filtration process to selectively remove specific substances.
Red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and treated plasma are subsequently returned to the body.
Why Is Plasma Filtration Performed?
Plasma is an important component of blood and carries a wide range of substances throughout the body. Plasma filtration may be used to selectively remove particular substances from plasma according to medical indications and physician assessment.
At VitalLife, treatment planning is individualized and conducted under physician supervision.
How Double Filtration Plasmapheresis Works
Double Filtration Plasmapheresis
Plasmapheresis at VitalLife uses a process known as Double Filtration Plasmapheresis (DFPP), which utilizes specialized filters to selectively remove targeted substances from plasma.
An experienced nursing team accesses a vein in the arm, after which the blood is separated into its components. Plasma passes through the filtration system before being recombined with red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets and returned to the body.
Before the treated plasma is returned, replacement substances such as albumin may be administered according to the treatment plan and physician discretion.
Who May Be Considered for Plasmapheresis?
- Individuals seeking a comprehensive approach to health, subject to physician assessment and medical indication.
- Individuals with inherited lipid disorders such as genetic hyperlipidemia or familial hypercholesterolemia, elevated Lipoprotein(a), or hyperproteinemia.
- Individuals with certain chronic inflammatory or allergic skin conditions when clinically indicated.
- Individuals with drug-related skin reactions, when considered appropriate by a physician.
- Individuals with hepatitis C infection, subject to clinical indication.
- Individuals with certain autoimmune or immune-mediated conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, SLE, Pemphigus, Guillain-Barré Syndrome and Myasthenia Gravis, depending on physician assessment and treatment indication.
What Can Be Expected After Plasmapheresis?
- The procedure is designed to remove selected target substances from plasma according to the treatment indication.
- Individual responses and clinical outcomes may vary depending on the underlying condition and treatment objective.
- Results are reviewed by the physician, who will recommend an appropriate follow-up plan.
The frequency depends on the individual's health condition, medical indication and physician assessment. Treatment schedules may therefore vary from person to person.
Preparing for Treatment and Safety Considerations
Preparing for Plasmapheresis
- Depending on the physician's recommendation, fasting may be required from 8:00 PM on the night before treatment if blood testing is scheduled the following morning.
- Get at least 6–8 hours of adequate sleep before your appointment.
- Inform your physician of all medications, vitamins and supplements you are currently taking.
- If you have a fever, cold or feel unwell, inform the medical team so that treatment can be rescheduled if appropriate.
Possible Complications in Some Individuals
- Bruising, swelling, infection or bleeding at the venous access site.
- Low blood pressure.
- Fluid imbalance or edema.
- Reduced platelet count.
- Reactions related to anticoagulant medications, which may include irregular heartbeat, tingling or numbness, low blood pressure or bleeding.
- Fever, chills or mild rash may occur in some individuals.
Precautions
Plasmapheresis may not be suitable for individuals with blood-clotting disorders, patients in shock, individuals with low blood pressure, or anyone considered unsuitable for treatment following physician assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plasmapheresis
What is the minimum age for Plasmapheresis?
Who may not be suitable for Plasmapheresis?
- Individuals with blood-clotting disorders
- Patients in shock or with low blood pressure
- Pregnant individuals
How should I take care of myself after treatment?
- Rest for the period recommended by the medical team before leaving the clinic.
- Avoid very hot food or beverages for at least 3 hours after treatment.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure and very hot environments on the day of treatment.
- Avoid hot baths and saunas on the day of treatment.
- Avoid shaving or cutting your nails for approximately 4–6 hours after treatment to help reduce the risk of bleeding.
- Follow all individualized post-treatment instructions provided by your physician and nursing team.
When can I expect to notice results?
Can I receive Plasmapheresis immediately, or do I need to see a physician first?
Is a preliminary health screening required?
- If you have not had an annual health check or your latest results are more than six months old, the physician may recommend additional screening to assess your overall health and treatment readiness.
- If you have health screening results from within the past six months, you may bring them for physician review to determine whether any additional testing is required.
How much does Plasmapheresis cost?
Plasmapheresis
The treatment plan and any additional investigations will be assessed and recommended by the physician according to each individual's health condition.
Enquire or Book a Physician Consultation
All individuals considering Plasmapheresis are required to undergo physician assessment before treatment.