[Plasmapheresis in radiotherapy for pancreatic cancer]

Although radiotherapy is known to improve the results of treatment for pancreatic carcinoma, its application is limited due to such side effects and complications as anemia, leuko-, thrombocytopenia and dyspeptic disorders. It was suggested that since these complications are primarily caused by radiotherapy itself and mass death of tumor cells, plasmapheresis might raise tolerance to radiation. This was confirmed by our experience with its use during radiotherapy course in 22 patients with pancreatic cancer.