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Therapeutic plasma exchange: an underutilized therapeutic modality?
Samuel H Pepkowitz1, Alyssa Ziman
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rita and Taft Schreiber Division of Transfusion Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA. pepkowitz@cshs.org
Summary
Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is a primary therapy for many conditions. Expanding its use as a chronic or adjunctive therapy may reduce reliance on toxic medications.
Area of Science:
- Medical Science
- Immunology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) has been clinically available for about 25 years.
- TPE is recognized as a primary therapy for numerous medical conditions.
- Current use of TPE is sometimes limited by efficacy schedules.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the expansion of TPE to new indications.
- To highlight TPE's potential in avoiding toxic pharmacologic interventions.
- To advocate for the acceptance of TPE's adjunctive role in therapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical applications and efficacy of TPE.
- Analysis of TPE's role in chronic therapy.
- Evaluation of TPE as an adjunctive treatment modality.
Main Results:
- TPE is a valuable primary therapy for diverse conditions.
- Potential exists to expand TPE indications.
- TPE can help patients avoid harmful drug treatments, especially in chronic settings.
Conclusions:
- Acceptance of TPE as an adjunctive therapy is crucial for expanding its utility.
- Focusing on TPE's role in chronic care and medication avoidance can broaden its application.
- TPE offers a valuable therapeutic option beyond its curative role.