Improvement of peripheral circulation by low density lipoprotein adsorption

Low density lipoprotein (LDL) was removed by repeated extracorporeal adsorption with a dextran sulphate cellulose column in 5 patients with clinical signs of poor peripheral circulation. The LDL apheresis was continued for 2 to 10 months, and symptoms such as cold or "heavy" legs, or intermittent claudication rapidly improved early in the treatment course in all 5 patients. Clearing of mentation occurred in 3, and recovery of kidney function was seen in 1 patient. These improvements occurred concomitant with a reduction in LDL level.