apharesis

Apheresis is a medical procedure where blood is drawn from a donor or patient and passed through a machine that separates out one or more specific components, such as plasma, platelets, or leukocytes. The remaining blood is then returned to the donor or patient. This process is typically performed using an apheresis machine, which centrifuges the blood to separate it based on density.

The primary uses of apheresis are for obtaining therapeutic components for transfusion to patients, such as platelets and plasma. It is also used to remove harmful substances from the blood of patients with certain diseases, a process known as therapeutic apheresis. Examples of therapeutic apheresis include LDL apheresis for hypercholesterolemia, plasmapheresis to remove antibodies or toxins, and cytapheresis to reduce the number of abnormal cells.

Apheresis procedures are generally safe, but like any medical intervention, they carry some risks. These can include temporary side effects related to the anticoagulants used, such as citrate toxicity causing tingling or muscle cramps, or hypotension. There is also a small risk of infection or bruising at the needle insertion site. The specific risks and benefits are discussed with the patient or donor before the procedure. The duration of an apheresis session can vary depending on the volume of blood processed and the component being collected or removed, typically ranging from one to several hours.