A case of hyperviscosity syndrome associated with Waldenström macroglobulinemia treated with membrane plasma exchange...

A 75-year-old man with blurred vision and nasal bleeding was diagnosed with hyperviscosity syndrome and central retinal vein occlusion secondary to Waldenström macroglobulinemia. Serum total protein and IgM levels were undetectable. Because of the severe symptoms, we determined that immediate plasma-exchange treatment was required to decrease the blood viscosity. The initial plasma exchange was performed using the membrane isolation method with a predilution standby. A saline predilution replacement was prepared to decrease the total membrane pressure (TMP); however, the predilution protocol was not used because the planned treatment volume could be achieved without increasing the TMP. After two consecutive days of membrane plasma exchange, all serum biochemical tests were measurable, and IgM was below 4000 mg/dL. After chemotherapy, his visual symptoms improved, and he was discharged. Since it is difficult to assess the risk of elevated TMP prior to initial plasma exchange, membrane plasma exchange with a predilution standby may be a useful strategy for initial plasma exchange for hyperviscosity syndrome in terms of safety and efficiency.