Variations in Therapeutic Plasma Exchange and Extracorporeal Photopheresis Practice Patterns: Survey Results From the...

Apheresis practice patterns for complications of heart and lung transplant vary among institutions. In this study, we conducted an international survey distributed to all members of the American Society for Apheresis to characterize how therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) and extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) are used for complications related to heart and lung transplantation. In total, there were 49 survey responders. For both heart and lung transplant, there was significant variability in factors used to determine whether to initiate apheresis, technical aspects of performing apheresis, assessment of response to apheresis, and utilization of additional apheresis for inadequate responses. This survey highlights the variability and need for standardization in TPE and ECP practice patterns for complications of heart and lung transplant. By understanding variabilities in apheresis practice patterns, guidelines may be developed in the future to optimize and standardize care for patients.