Changes in the lymphocyte subset after double-filtration plasmapheresis

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cellular Biology
• Medical Procedures

Background:

• Membrane plasmapheresis (MP) is a medical procedure used to remove plasma components.
• The direct effects of MP on lymphocyte subset distribution are not fully understood.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for assessing MP's impact on the immune system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the immediate impact of double-filtration plasmapheresis (DFP) on lymphocyte subset distribution in healthy volunteers.
• To determine if DFP alters the percentages of T-helper cells, suppressor T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells.
• To analyze the influence of age and sex on DFP's effects on lymphocyte subsets.

Main Methods:

• Paired blood specimens were collected from 18 healthy volunteers before and after a single DFP session.
• Flow cytometry was used to analyze lymphocyte subset populations.
• Statistical analysis was performed to compare pre- and post-treatment values and to assess age and sex differences.

Main Results:

• DFP significantly increased T-helper cells (2.34%) and B cells (P = .0012), while decreasing suppressor T cells (2.22%, P = .0095).
• The T-helper/T-suppressor (Th/Ts) ratio significantly increased (P < .0001) post-DFP, irrespective of age or sex.
• Older volunteers showed higher post-treatment percentages of B and T-helper cells, while younger subjects had lower suppressor T cells.

Conclusions:

• A single session of membrane plasmapheresis appears to activate the cellular immune system.
• DFP alters lymphocyte distribution, notably increasing B cells and the Th/Ts ratio.
• These findings suggest potential immunomodulatory effects of DFP that warrant further investigation.