Related Experiment Videos
Therapeutic apheresis in Taiwan
1Department of Neurology, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Shih Lin district, Taipei, Taiwan.
Summary
Therapeutic apheresis (TA) in Taiwan primarily treats neurological disorders. While effective, plasma exchange (PE) has high complication rates, suggesting a need for safer methods like double-filtration (DF) apheresis.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Neurology
- Hematology
Background:
- Therapeutic apheresis (TA) is a crucial treatment modality for various conditions.
- Understanding the current landscape of TA in Taiwan is essential for optimizing patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey the status of therapeutic apheresis treatments in Taiwan.
- To identify common indications, methods, and complications associated with TA.
Main Methods:
- A nationwide survey was conducted by the Formosan Blood Purification Society from July 1, 1999, to June 30, 2000.
- Data collected from 13 centers included patient numbers, treatment courses, procedures, indications, methods, and complications.
Main Results:
- Neurological disorders, particularly myasthenia gravis and Guillain-Barré syndrome, were the most common indications (58.4%).
- Plasma exchange (PE) was the predominant method (55.4%), followed by double-filtration (DF) apheresis (39.3%).
- Overall complication rates were 42.2% per course and 12.9% per procedure, with fever, urticaria, and hypotension being most frequent.
Conclusions:
- Plasma exchange remains the primary TA method in Taiwan.
- The high complication rate of PE suggests a need to transition towards DF or selective adsorptive methods to improve patient safety.