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Photopheresis and autoimmune diseases
1Division of Rheumatology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA. mmayes@oncgate.roc.wayne.edu
Rheumatic Diseases Clinics of North America
|February 19, 2000
Summary
Photopheresis shows potential for treating autoimmune diseases, but more controlled studies are needed. Rigorous multi-center trials are essential to confirm its effectiveness in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Case reports and series suggest photopheresis efficacy in autoimmune diseases.
- A decade of research includes open trials and one controlled study.
- The therapeutic role of photopheresis in autoimmune conditions is not yet established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the established role of photopheresis in autoimmune disease treatment.
- To highlight the need for further controlled investigations.
- To determine the necessity of multi-center trials for definitive assessment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing case reports and case series.
- Analysis of open-label trials.
- Consideration of available controlled study data.
- Proposal for future controlled multi-center trials.
Main Results:
- Limited controlled data exists on photopheresis for autoimmune diseases.
- Existing evidence is largely based on case reports and open trials.
- The efficacy of photopheresis requires further rigorous investigation.
Conclusions:
- The role of photopheresis in autoimmune disease management remains undetermined.
- Controlled multi-center trials are necessary for robust evaluation.
- Future research should focus on conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, and scleroderma.