Frequency of immediate adverse effects associated with therapeutic apheresis

Ethylene oxide-type hypersensitivity reactions in G-CSF mobilized, peripheral blood hematopoietic progenitor cell donors and review

BACKGROUND

Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a volatile, ringed toxic ether used to sterilize heat-labile plastics including apheresis sets. In the 1980s, EtO-associated severe hypersensitivity reactions during hemodialysis led to widespread adoption of alternative sterilization for dialysis kits but not apheresis tubing sets. We now report several cases of EtO-type hypersensitivity reactions in autologous donors undergoing hematopoietic progenitor cell collection (HPCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A 10-year retrospective review of allergic EtO-type reactions in adults undergoing HPCC on the COBE Spectra and SPECTRA Optia was performed. Donor medical history and absolute eosinophil counts were compared between cases and 34 HPCC controls. Published EtO reactions during extracorporeal procedures were reviewed with statistical analysis. Graphics and statistics were performed using commercial software.

RESULTS

Three autologous HPCC donors experienced EtO-type reactions within 15 min of initiating HPCC, for a 10-year incident rate of 0.08% per procedure and 0.18% per donor. All three reactions occurred using the Spectra Optia and IDL tubing set, for an Optia/IDL specific rate of 0.2% per procedure and 0.5% per donor. There was no correlation between EtO reactions, eosinophil counts, or saline prime dwell times. No patient had classic predisposing risk factors for EtO hypersensitivity. Two patients required medical intervention whereas the third responded by pausing the procedure and slowing the inlet rate.

CONCLUSION

EtO-type hypersensitivity reactions can be observed during HPCC, especially with the Optia IDL tubing set. EtO reactions may be missed due to their rarity and staff unfamiliarity with this clinical entity.

Red blood cells as glucose carriers to the human brain: Modulation of cerebral activity by erythrocyte exchange transfusion in Glut1 deficiency (G1D)

Red blood cells circulating through the brain are briefly but closely apposed to the capillary endothelium. We hypothesized that this contact provides a nearly direct pathway for metabolic substrate transfer to neural cells that complements the better characterized plasma to endothelium transfer. While brain function is considered independent of normal fluctuations in blood glucose concentration, this is not borne out by persons with glucose transporter I (GLUT1) deficiency (G1D). In them, encephalopathy is often ameliorated by meal or carbohydrate administration, and this enabled us to test our hypothesis: Since red blood cells contain glucose, and since the red cells of G1D individuals are also deficient in GLUT1, replacing them with normal donor cells via exchange transfusion could augment erythrocyte to neural cell glucose transport via mass action in the setting of unaltered erythrocyte count or plasma glucose abundance. This motivated us to perform red blood cell exchange in 3 G1D persons. There were rapid, favorable and unprecedented changes in cognitive, electroencephalographic and quality-of-life measures. The hypothesized transfer mechanism was further substantiated by in vitro measurement of direct erythrocyte to endothelial cell glucose flux. The results also indicate that the adult intellect is capable of significant enhancement without deliberate practice.      ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT04137692 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04137692.

Basic principles of therapeutic plasma exchange

Therapeutic plasma exchange is a method of treatment for clinical conditions that represent diverse fields of medicine. The rationale for this mode of therapy is based on sound mathematical modeling of the synthesis and removal of large molecules, usually proteins, from the circulation. The basic assumptions underlying therapeutic plasma exchange are that a clinical illness is caused by, or related to, a pathogenic substance in the plasma, and that removing that substance from the plasma will alleviate the patient's illness. This approach has proven applicable to a wide variety of clinical conditions. Therapeutic plasma exchange is largely a safe procedure in experienced hands. The principal adverse effect, the hypocalcemic reaction, is readily ameliorated or prevented.

An update on lipid apheresis for familial hypercholesterolemia

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited metabolic defect leading to increased total cholesterol and low-density cholesterol (LDL) from birth onwards. Homozygous FH, presenting with clear clinical features, has a prevalence of ~ 1 per million. Prevalence of heterozygous FH is 1/500 European population. Atherosclerotic burden depends on the degree and duration of high LDL exposure. In severe cases, early detection is critical, and aggressive lipid-lowering therapies should begin in early childhood to reduce coronary heart disease risk. Pediatric therapeutic concepts correspond to adults and are orientated at LDL plasma concentration. Mean LDL plasma target value during treatment is < 135 mg/dL. Medication in childhood consists of ezetemibe, statins, resins, and PCSK-9 inhibitors, with consideration for age restrictions. Only a minority achieve the treatment target with drug therapy alone. Therapeutic apheresis for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia selectively removes lipoproteins from blood (lipid apheresis (LA)). LA has a long tradition in adult medicine and is also safely used in children by a variety of methods, if customized to special pediatric needs. LA reduces cholesterol levels independently of residual LDL-receptor function and not only achieves reduction or disappearance of xanthomas but also inhibits progression of or mitigates aortic valve stenosis and supravalvular aortic stenosis as well as coronary artery and other atherosclerotic lesions. Cardiovascular prognosis of patients with otherwise untreatable FH depends largely on timely use of LA. Taking into account LA as a lifelong treatment, starting early in childhood, it is important to accommodate therapy modalities, such as treatment frequency and point of time, into the life of the individual.

Comprehensive guide to managing a chronic automated red cell exchange program in sickle cell disease

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and limits both the quality and quantity of life. Transfusion therapy, specifically automated red cell exchange (aRCE), plays a key role in management of SCD and is beneficial for certain indications in the chronic, outpatient setting. The approach to maintain a successful chronic aRCE program for SCD is multifaceted. This review will highlight important considerations including indications for aRCE, patient selection, transfusion medicine pearls, vascular access needs, complications of therapy, aRCE prescription, and therapy optimization. Moreover, the importance of a multidisciplinary approach with frequent communication between the services involved cannot be overstated. Ultimately, the underlying goal of a chronic RCE program is to improve the quality of life and longevity of patients with SCD.

A high-throughput microfluidic device based on controlled incremental filtration to enable centrifugation-free, low extracorporeal volume leukapheresis

Leukapheresis, the extracorporeal separation of white blood cells (WBCs) from red blood cells (RBCs) and platelets (PLTs), is a life-saving procedure used for treating patients with cancer and other conditions, and as the initial step in the manufacturing of cellular and gene-based therapies. Well-tolerated by adults, leukapheresis poses a significant risk to neonates and low-weight infants because the extracorporeal volume (ECV) of standard centrifugation-based machines represents a particularly large fraction of these patients' total blood volume. Here we describe a novel high-throughput microfluidic device (with a void volume of 0.4 mL) based on controlled incremental filtration (CIF) technology that could replace centrifugation for performing leukapheresis. The CIF device was tested extensively using whole blood from healthy volunteers at multiple hematocrits (5-30%) and flow rates (10-30 mL/min). In the flow-through regime, the CIF device separated WBCs with > 85% efficiency and 10-15% loss of RBCs and PLTs while processing whole blood diluted with saline to 10% hematocrit at a flow rate of 10 mL/min. In the recirculation regime, the CIF device demonstrated a similar level of separation performance, virtually depleting WBCs in the recirculating blood (~ 98% reduction) by the end of a 3.5-hour simulated leukapheresis procedure. Importantly, the device operated without clogging or decline in separation performance, with minimal activation of WBCs and PLTs and no measurable damage to RBCs. Compared to the typical parameters of centrifugation-based leukapheresis, the CIF device had a void volume at least 100-fold smaller, removed WBCs about twice as fast, and lost ~ 2-3-fold fewer PLTs, while operating at a flow rate compatible with the current practice. The hematocrit and flow rate at which the CIF device operated were significantly higher than previously published for other microfluidic cell separation methods. Finally, this study is the first to demonstrate a highly efficient separation of cells from recirculating blood using a microfluidic device. Overall, these findings suggest the feasibility of using high-throughput microfluidic cell separation technology to ultimately enable centrifugation-free, low-ECV leukapheresis. Such a capability would be particularly useful in young children, a vulnerable group of patients who are currently underserved.

Leukapheresis increases circulating tumour cell yield in non-small cell lung cancer, counts related to tumour response and survival

BACKGROUND

Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) can be used to monitor cancer longitudinally, but their use in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is limited due to low numbers in the peripheral blood. Through diagnostic leukapheresis (DLA) CTCs can be obtained from larger blood volumes.

METHODS

Patients with all stages of NSCLC were selected. One total body blood volume was screened by DLA before and after treatment. Peripheral blood was drawn pre- and post DLA for CTC enumeration by CellSearch. CTCs were detected in the DLA product (volume equalling 2 × 108 leucocytes) and after leucocyte depletion (RosetteSep, 9 mL DLA product). Single-cell, whole-genome sequencing was performed on isolated CTCs.

RESULTS

Fifty-six patients were included. Before treatment, CTCs were more often detected in DLA (32/55, 58%) than in the peripheral blood (pre-DLA: 18/55, 33%; post DLA: 13/55, 23%, both at p < 0.01). CTCs per 7.5 mL DLA product were median 9.2 times (interquartile range = 5.6-24.0) higher than CTCs in 7.5 mL blood. RosetteSEP did not significantly improve CTC detection (pretreatment: 34/55, 62%, post treatment: 16/34, 47%) and CTCs per mL even decreased compared to DLA (p = 0.04).. Patients with advanced-stage disease with DLA-CTC after treatment showed fewer tumour responses and shorter progression-free survival (PFS) than those without DLA-CTC (median PFS, 2.0 vs 12.0 months, p < 0.01). DLA-CTC persistence after treatment was independent of clinical factors associated with shorter PFS (hazard ratio (HR) = 5.8, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.4-35.5, p = 0.02). All evaluable CTCs showed aneuploidy.

CONCLUSIONS

DLA detected nine times more CTCs than in the peripheral blood. The sustained presence of CTCs in DLA after treatment was associated with therapy failure and shortened PFS.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was approved by the Medical Ethical Committee (NL55754.042.15) and was registered in the Dutch trial register (NL5423).

Therapeutic plasmapheresis for the treatment of thyrotoxicosis: A retrospective multi-center study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Thyroid storm and severe thyrotoxicosis remain among the most frequent endocrine emergencies, and first-line hyperthyroidism treatment is not always an option. Since the first report in 1970, plasmapheresis is a second-line treatment for severe or otherwise untreatable thyrotoxicosis when rapid euthyroidism is desired.

METHODS

We present a retrospective study of the experience in treating thyrotoxicosis with plasmapheresis between 2012 and 2020 in two specialized centers in Colombia. We register the demographic and clinical characteristic and compare the thyroid hormones and other biochemical measurements before and after treatment.

RESULTS

Data from 19 patients was obtained, 58% female with a median age of 35 years (IQR 23.5), and most of them with Graves' disease. The most frequent indication for plasmapheresis was thyroid storm. A median of 4 (IQR 2) sessions lead to a significant reduction in FT4 (P .0001) and TT3 (P < .0003) with a nonsignificant decrease in beta-blocker (P .7353) dose, no change in hepatic enzymes, and no adverse events. After plasmapheresis, thyroidectomy was performed in 10 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Plasmapheresis is an effective and safe treatment option for reducing circulating thyroid hormones in severe thyrotoxicosis when other forms of treatment are contraindicated or in case of urgent thyroid and non-thyroid surgery. It is limited by its cost and the need for highly specialized resources.

Crash Landing of Thyroid Storm: A Case Report and Review of the Role of Extra-Corporeal Systems

Thyroid storm is a rare but life-threatening endocrinological emergency with significant mortality ranging from 10-30% with multi-organ involvement and failure. In view of the rarity of this condition and efficacy of established first line medical treatment, use of extra-corporeal treatments are uncommon, not well-studied, and its available evidence exists only from case reports and case series. We describe a 28-year-old man who presented with an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest secondary to thyroid storm. Despite conventional first-line pharmacotherapy, he developed cardiogenic shock and circulatory collapse with intravenous esmolol infusion, as well as multi-organ failure. He required therapeutic plasma exchange, concurrent renal replacement therapy, and veno-arterial extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation, one of the few reported cases in the literature. While there was clinical stabilization and improvement in tri-iodothyronine levels on three extra-corporeal systems, he suffered irreversible hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. We reviewed the use of early therapeutic plasma exchange and extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation, as well as the development of other novel extra-corporeal modalities when conventional pharmacotherapy is unsuccessful or contraindicated. This case also highlights the complexities in the management of thyroid storm, calling for caution with beta-blockade use in thyrocardiac disease, with close monitoring and prompt organ support.

The use of therapeutic plasma exchange for pediatric patients supported on extracorporeal membranous oxygenator therapy: A narrative review

Therapeutic plasma exchange in children is increasingly recognized as a life-saving treatment and is challenged by some technical considerations. As extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has been used for nearly half a century for refractory reversible respiratory and/or cardiac failure in both pediatric and adult populations, it may serve as an extracorporeal platform for therapeutic plasma exchange. It is most commonly described in patients with sepsis with multiple organ failure or thrombocytopenia associated multi organ failure. Additional pathophysiological processes of inflammatory and immunological storms might benefit from the combination of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and plasma exchange. This is a nonmethodological review of English-language reports of therapeutic plasma exchange performed in patients supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, both pediatric and adult, searching six databases, MEDLINE, Clinical Key, GOOGLE SCHOLAR, CINAHL, Cochrane library, and EMBASE.

Usefulness of plasmapheresis in patients with severe complicated thyrotoxicosis

The standard treatment of complicated thyrotoxicosis and thyroid storm with the concomitant use of antithyroid medication, iodine, beta-blockers, and corticosteroids is successful in most cases. However, treatment options are limited when antithyroidal drugs cannot be used or in cases that are refractory to standard treatment. Plasmapheresis provides a safe and effective strategy when initial treatment fails, facilitating the transition to definitive treatments such as thyroidectomy. We present two adults with complicated thyrotoxicosis successfully treated with plasmapheresis as a bridge therapy to thyroidectomy or as an alternative to drug-induced toxicity.

Therapeutic plasma exchange for control of thyroid storm

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) for thyroid storm has recently been upgraded to a category II indication after decades though its recommendation level still remains at Grade 2C according to the American Society for Apheresis (ASFA). In the absence of prospective randomized controlled trials due to the rarity of thyroid storm, retrospective data from case series continue to elevate the clinical evidence supporting TPE as a life-saving modality for complicated thyroid storm patients. We report three cases of life-threatening thyroid storm from Graves' disease rescued by TPE via rapid reduction in circulating thyroid hormones. Each patient underwent TPE when it was judged that other thyroid storm treatment options were futile or unsafe. The first patient received 4 cycles of TPE while the second patient received 9 cycles of TPE, and the third patient received 2 cycles of TPE with satisfactory clinical improvement. Plasma FT4 and TSH receptor antibody levels of the first case declined by 41.3% and >50% respectively right after the first round of TPE; plasma FT4 of the second patient dropped by up to 31.6% during the course of TPE; plasma FT4 and TSH receptor antibody of the third patient declined by 66% and 56.2% respectively after the first cycle of TPE. This demonstrates the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of TPE in thyroid storm especially when other therapeutic interventions are contraindicated. TPE operates via the elimination of serum proteins-bound thyroid hormones, thyroid autoantibodies, cytokines, and catecholamines in addition to increasing unsaturated binding sites for thyroid hormones.

Sepsis and thyroid storm in a patient with methimazole-induced agranulocytosis

Paediatric hyperthyroidism cases are mostly caused by Grave's disease. Thyroid storm is a life-threatening condition seen rarely, in severe thyrotoxicosis, occurring in about 1%-2% of patients with hyperthyroidism. Antithyroid medications and beta-blockers are typically the first-line management of thyroid storm. We report a challenging case of a 15-year-old girl who presented with thyroid storm in the setting of septic shock and methimazole-induced agranulocytosis. Since the first-line agents were contraindicated, plasmapheresis was used to control the thyroid storm and as a bridging therapy to the definitive therapy of early thyroidectomy. This is the first paediatric case report that outlines the use of plasmapheresis in the management of complicated thyrotoxicosis in a setting of septic shock.

Extracorporeal Photopheresis in Graft-versus-Host Disease

Background and Summary

Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is a leukapheresis-based procedure used in the therapy of acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD, cGvHD) and other diseases. Based on the substantial efficacy and the excellent safety profile in the absence of immunosuppression ECP has established itself as a major treatment form for steroid-refractory GvHD. Here we review the current literature on ECP as a treatment option for patients with aGvHD as well as cGvHD.

Key Messages

ECP is a well-established second-line therapy for cGvHD. Its role in the treatment of aGvHD is less clear but also points towards an effective second-line therapy option. In the future ECP could play a role in the prevention of GvHD. More experimental and randomized controlled trials are needed to define the best patient selection criteria, settings, and therapy regimens for GvHD.

Detection of Circulating Tumor Cells in the Diagnostic Leukapheresis Product of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Patients Comparing CellSearch® and ISET

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) detected by CellSearch are prognostic in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but rarely found. CTCs can be extracted from the blood together with mononuclear cell populations by diagnostic leukapheresis (DLA), therefore concentrating them. However, CellSearch can only process limited DLA volumes (≈2 mL). Therefore, we established a protocol to enumerate CTCs in DLA products with Isolation by SizE of Tumor cells (ISET), and compared CTC counts between CellSearch® and ISET. DLA was performed in NSCLC patients who started a new therapy. With an adapted protocol, ISET could process 10 mL of DLA. CellSearch detected CTCs in a volume equaling 2 × 108 leukocytes (mean 2 mL). CTC counts per mL were compared. Furthermore, the live cell protocol of ISET was tested in eight patients. ISET successfully processed all DLA products-16 with the fixed cell protocol and 8 with the live cell protocol. In total, 10-20 mL of DLA was processed. ISET detected CTCs in 88% (14/16), compared to 69% (11/16, p < 0.05) with CellSearch. ISET also detected higher number of CTCs (ISET median CTC/mL = 4, interquartile range [IQR] = 2-6, CellSearch median CTC/mL = 0.9, IQR = 0-1.8, p < 0.01). Cells positive for the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM+) per mL were detected in similar counts by both methods. Eight patients were processed with the live cell protocol. All had EpCAM+, CD45-, CD235- cells isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). Overall, ISET processed larger volumes and detected higher CTC counts compared to CellSearch. EpCAM+ CTCs were detected in comparable rates.

Safety and effectiveness of apheresis in the treatment of infectious diseases: A systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Apheresis has been used as adjunctive treatment of severe falciparum malaria, loiasis and babesiosis. This systematic review aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of apheresis in the treatment of these conditions.

METHODS

MEDLINE, PUBMED, EMBASE and CINAHL databases were searched to identify studies published between January 1969 and March 2018 involving patients treated using apheresis for severe falciparum malaria, loiasis or babesiosis. Data extracted included details about the apheresis intervention, populations, study methods and outcomes relating to efficacy and safety.

RESULTS

A total of 67 publications met the inclusion criteria and were included in the data synthesis, 36 for malaria (70 cases), 17 for babesiosis (22 cases) and 14 for loiasis (34 cases). Publications were case reports, case series, and cohort studies; there were no randomised controlled trials identified. Potential publication bias was considered to be high.

CONCLUSIONS

Systematic review of the literature suggests that apheresis may be a useful adjunct in the treatment of patients hospitalised for babesiosis, and prior to chemotherapy in loiasis with microfilarial count >8000 parasites/mL. Data does not support the use of apheresis in patients with severe falciparum malaria.

[Single-center retrospective analysis of extracorporal photopheresis in clinical practice : Peripheral venous compared to central venous access]

BACKGROUND

Extracorporal photopheresis (ECP) was shown to be effective without severe side effects in the treatment of cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) and graft versus host disease (GvHD). However, only few studies investigated the practical aspects of ECP.

METHODS

Treatment protocols of 2038 ECP procedures in 52 patients (CTCL, n = 29; GvHD, n = 15; other, n = 8) were evaluated. The patients were treated with the UVAR® XTS™ ECP system (Therakos, Inc. Johnson & Johnson, Raritan, NJ, USA) between 2001 and 2010. All patients started with a peripheral venous access. During the course of treatment 7 patients were treated via a port and 4 via a central venous catheter.

RESULTS

In all, 1765 (86.6%) treatments were performed with a peripheral venous access; 239 (11.7%) ECPs were done via a port and 34 (1.7%) via a central venous catheter. The peripheral venous access showed a higher flow rate and longer photoactivation time. ECPs via port lead to higher UV-irradiated volumes, longer treatment times and higher differences in systolic blood pressure. The following side effects were observed: being unwell (n = 13), hypo- (n = 13) and hypertension (n = 7), vertigo (n = 4), headache (n = 4), shortness of breath (n = 4), fever (n = 3) and metallic taste (n = 3). Technical complications such as problems with venous access (9.6%) occurred in 385 (18.9%) treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

Peripheral venous access should be preferred for ECP treatments.

SPS: Understanding the complexity

INTRODUCTION

Stiff-person syndrome (SPS), first described in 1956 by Moersch and Woltman, is a progressive autoimmune disorder with core features of chronic fluctuating progressive truncal and limb rigidity and painful muscle spasms leading to gait difficulties, falls and an appearance that resembles tin soldiers. The syndrome is a rare, highly disabling disorder of the central nervous and frequently results in significant disability. Understanding of the etiology, clinical spectrum, diagnostic workup and therapeutic modalities for this painful and disabling disorder has vastly evolved over the past few years with more confidence in classifying and treating the patients. The purpose of this review is to increase the awareness, early detection, and treatment of this disabling disease.

METHOD

PubMed was searched, all date inclusive, using the following phrases: stiff person syndrome,anti-Glutamic acid decarboxylase (Anti-GAD) antibody syndrome, Progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus (PERM), and Paraneoplastic Stiff Person syndrome. No filters or restrictions were used. A total of 888 articles were identified.

RESULTS

The results were narrowed to 190 citations after excluding non-English and duplicate reports. Clinical presentation, laboratory testing, treatment, and prognosis were categorized and summarized.

DISCUSSION

In this article we will discuss the epidemiology, presentation and classification. Explain the pathophysiology of SPS and the autoimmune mechanisms involved. Discuss the diagnostic approach and treatments available, as well as, the prognosis and outcome.

Developments in the use of plasma exchange and adjunctive therapies to treat immune-mediated thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

Introduction: Immune-mediated thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) is a life-threatening disease characterized by a severe functional deficit in the von-Willebrand cleaving protease ADAMTS13, due to autoantibody production. The once-dismal prognosis of the disease has been changed by the discovery of the dramatic efficiency of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). Areas covered: This review focuses on the history and recent developments in the use of TPE for iTTP with a special emphasis on the consequences for TPE practice of the recent introduction of new highly effective immunosuppressive strategies and anti-von Willebrand factor (vWF) therapies. Expert opinion: Although TPE still represents the cornerstone, emergency treatment of iTTP, their duration, and associated complications could be dramatically reduced in the future by the systematic addition of early immunosuppression using corticosteroids and rituximab as well as an anti-vWF therapy with caplacizumab.

Removal Dynamics of Autoantibodies, Immunoglobulins, and Coagulation Factors by Selective Plasma Exchange on Three Consecutive Days

Selective plasma exchange has been shown to be effective in various diseases, but no studies have assessed the benefits of daily treatment. We aimed to investigate the removal dynamics of immunoglobulins, fibrinogen, and factor XIII on three consecutive days in three patients. For mean processed plasma volumes of 1.06 × plasma volume, reductions of 79.6%, 49.3%, and 8.6% were seen for immunoglobulins G, A, and M, respectively. The reductions for fibrinogen and factor XIII were 18.4% and 13.0%, respectively. Removal dynamics were similar for immunoglobulin G-related autoantibodies and immunoglobulin G when using daily selective plasma exchange. Moreover, daily use effectively removed the immunoglobulin G while retaining the coagulation factors. When disease-specific autoantibodies are limited to immunoglobulin G, daily selective plasma exchange may be a useful and safe method of intensive induction treatment for plasmapheresis. However, further study is required in larger cohorts to confirm these findings.

Epidemiology of therapeutic apheresis with a multidisciplinary approach at a high volume pediatric center

INTRODUCTION

Therapeutic apheresis (TA) is used inconsistently in pediatric populations. We seek to define our multidisciplinary institutional practice.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients receiving TA from January 1, 2012 through October 31, 2015. Data collected included demographics, American Society of Apheresis (ASFA) indication, complications, and mortality.

RESULTS

Over 46 months, 1198 TA procedures were conducted on 289 patients ranging in age from 5 months to 21 years with weights ranging from 4.76 to 170.3 kg (16 procedures in patients <10 kg). The procedures were 86% therapeutic plasma exchange, 10% red blood cell exchange, 4% extracorporeal photopheresis, and 5 leukocytapheresis procedures. TA was initiated in different clinical environments: 41% outpatient, 37% intensive care, 15% general inpatient, and 7% operating room. The ASFA category (6th edition) indications for the 1198 procedures included: 44% category I, 25% category II, 23% category III, a single category IV procedure, and the remainder (8%) uncategorized by ASFA. The rate of procedure failure and procedure-related mortality are 1 and 0%, respectively. Case mortality rate was 4%.

CONCLUSION

At a large volume pediatric hospital, TA is commonly used and can be performed safely in a variety of settings by a multidisciplinary team. This demographic review catalogs the number and type of procedures performed as a second-line therapy or on the basis of limited evidence. Additional collaborative investigation is needed to evaluate unique implications of TA in pediatrics to maximize efficacy while preserving safety.

Why It Is Not Always Anxiety: A Tough Diagnosis of Stiff Person Syndrome

Anxiety disorder is a commonly used diagnosis that may mask underlying conditions. Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a rare neuroimmunological disorder characterized by progressive rigidity and painful muscle spasms affecting axial and lower extremity musculature. These episodes can be triggered by sudden movement, noise, or emotional stress, which may present as a psychiatric condition. We report the case of a 30-year-old female who presented with recurrent panic attacks with multiple prior hospital admissions for anxiety, rigidity, and difficulty in walking. Previous electroencephalogram (EEG) and brain and cervical spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were unremarkable. She was empirically treated with diazepam and beta-blockers for SPS, which was confirmed by positive glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibodies. The patient's symptoms became refractory to benzodiazepines and required steroids with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). Her rigidity subsequently responded to plasmapheresis. In SPS, antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) most commonly target the GAD antigen on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurons. The goal of treatment is to ameliorate symptoms and improve quality of life. Our case of SPS was masked as generalized anxiety disorder for at least six years since onset of symptoms. The criteria for both diagnoses may overlap as seen in this patient.

Use of Cellular and Plasma Apheresis in the Critically Ill Patient: Part II: Clinical Indications and Applications

Apheresis is the process of separating the blood and removing or manipulating a cellular or plasma component for therapeutic benefit. Such procedures may be indicated in the critical care setting as primary or adjunctive therapy for certain hematologic, neurologic, renal, and autoimmune/rheumatologic disorders. In part I of this series, the technical aspects of apheresis were described and the physiologic rationale and clinical considerations were discussed. This review highlights the pathophysiologic basis, specific clinical indications, and treatment parameters for disorders that more commonly require management in the intensive care unit. The choice of plasma or cellular apheresis in these cases is guided by wellaccepted, evidence-based clinical treatment guidelines. For some disorders, such as liver failure, severe sepsis, and multiple-organ dysfunction syndrome, apheresis treatment approaches remain experimental. Ongoing studies are investigating the potential utility of conventional plasma exchange, ex vivo plasma manipulation, and newer technologies for these and other disorders in severely ill patients.

Use of Cellular and Plasma Apheresis in the Critically Ill Patient: Part 1: Technical and Physiological Considerations

Apheresis is the process of separating the blood and removing or manipulating a cellular or plasma component for therapeutic benefit. An apheresis procedure, or series of procedures, may be indicated in the critical care setting as primary or adjunctive therapy for certain hematologic, neurologic, renal, and autoimmune/ rheumatologic disorders. Optimal management of severely ill patients undergoing apheresis requires a working knowledge of the technical, methodological, and therapeutic considerations. These considerations include instrument hardware and separation methods, vascular access requirements, hemodynamic and hemostatic effects of the procedures, exposure to anticoagulants and homologous blood products, physiological variables affecting blood/plasma processing efficiency, and therapeutic endpoints for specific indications. Part 1 of this review will discuss each of those technological considerations and the basic physiological principles that guide this form of therapy. Part 2 of this series will deal with the clinical indications and applications for specific disorders that are most likely to affect patients in the intensive care unit.

How Can We Improve Retention of the First-Time Donor? A Systematic Review of the Current Evidence

Blood products are critical to health systems and donations by voluntary nonremunerated donors are recommended. Worldwide, however, only around 5% of those eligible to donate do so and around half of those never return to donate again. This review focuses on what deters first-time donors, what predicts their retention, and what interventions may promote retention of this group. A comprehensive search of relevant databases identified 9 studies investigating motives and deterrents of first-time donors, 14 studies investigating predictors for first-time donors (13 whole blood [WB] and 2 plasmapheresis), and 15 studies (in 14 published articles) detailing interventions conducted on first-time donors. Drawing on an established blood donation taxonomy, studies were classified by 2 independent raters. Interventions were also classified into traditional, behavioral, or social science interventions. With only 2 eligible studies among first-time plasmapheresis donors, analyses focused on WB donors. First-time WB donors reported benevolent and collectivistic motivations, as well as personal benefits to commence WB donation. Self-reported deterrents have typically not been examined. Intention predicted first-time donor retention with intention determined by attitudes and a sense of (perceived behavioral) control. However, anxiety, adverse events, and deferrals all deterred retention. Traditional interventions, such as reminders and incentives, are widespread yet had only a small effect on return of first-time donors. Although behavioral science interventions such as fluid loading are effective, the strongest effect for the return of first-time donors was found when individual psychological support was provided. The purpose of this analysis was to identify the factors associated with the commencement and continuation of first WB donations. The current review revealed that self-reported motivators are typically not effective, and most successful predictive factors identified have not been translated into interventions. Future work would do well to identify, manage, and meet donors' expectations along with developing more individualized donation experiences. Blood donor research should delineate donor career stages; addressing first-time donor retention will support stable panels for blood collection agencies.

Recent Advances and Review on Treatment of Stiff Person Syndrome in Adults and Pediatric Patients

Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is one of the rarest autoimmune neurological disorders, which is mostly reported in women. It is characterised by fluctuating muscle rigidity and spasms. There are many variants of SPS, these include the classical SPS, Stiff Leg Syndrome (SLS), paraneoplastic variant, gait ataxia, dysarthria, and abnormal eye movements. Studies have shown that the paraneoplastic variant of SPS is more common in patients with breast cancer who harbour amphiphysin antibodies, followed by colon cancer, lung cancer, Hodgkin's disease, and malignant thymoma. 

Currently, the treatment for SPS revolves around improving the quality of life by reducing the symptoms as far as possible with the use of GABAergic agonists, such as diazepam or other benzodiazepines, steroids, plasmapheresis, and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). There have been random clinical trials with Rituximab, but nothing concrete has been suggested. A treatment approach with standard drugs and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) seems to be promising.

Perspectives on sipuleucel-T: Its role in the prostate cancer treatment paradigm

Sipuleucel-T is an autologous cellular immunotherapy approved in the US for patients with asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). This significant advance for mCRPC treatment provides healthcare professionals with another effective therapy to extend survival. As an immunotherapy, sipuleucel-T possesses specific characteristics differentiating it from traditional therapies. At a roundtable meeting of experts, sipuleucel-T data were discussed, focusing on interpretation and clinical implications. Important differences between immunotherapies and traditional therapies were explored, e.g., mode of action, outcomes, data consistency and robustness, timing of sipuleucel-T treatment, and future perspectives in areas such as short-term markers of long-term benefit.

Assessment of Hemostasis after Plasma Exchange Using Rotational Thrombelastometry (ROTEM)

Background

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE)-based protocols immediately before cadaveric donor kidney transplantation have been extensively used in highly sensitized recipients. Plasma is generally preferred over human albumin as replacement fluid to avoid depletion of coagulation factors and perioperative bleeding. The aim of this study was to estimate bleeding risk after TPE replaced with albumin using rotational thromboelastography (ROTEM).

Methodology

Ten patients without overt coagulation abnormalities underwent TPE. Standard laboratory coagulation tests (thromboplastin time, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), international normalized ratio (INR), thrombin clotting time, fibrinogen levels and antithrombin activity) were compared with thrombelastometry analysis (EXTEM and INTEM tests) before and after TPE.

Principal Findings

TPE significantly reduced fibrinogen levels (482 ± 182 vs. 223 ± 122 mg/dL), antithrombin activity (103 ± 11 vs. 54 ± 11 %), and prolonged aPTT (28 ± 3 vs. 45 ± 8 s), thromboplastin time (108 ± 11 vs. 68 ± 11 %), INR (0.95 ± 0.06 vs. 1.25 ± 0.16), and thrombin clotting time (18 ± 2 vs. 20 ± 3 s). INTEM and EXTEM analyses revealed significantly prolonged clot-formation time and reduced maximum clot firmness.

Conclusions/Significance

TPE replaced with albumin induces significant changes in global hemostasis parameters thus potentially increasing bleeding risk. Therefore, pretransplant TPE should be considered carefully in indicated patients before kidney transplantation. The role of the ROTEM point-of-care test to estimate the risk of bleeding in renal transplantation needs to be evaluated in further studies.

Role of therapeutic apheresis and phlebotomy techniques in anaesthesia and critical care

Therapeutic transfusion techniques such as apheresis and phlebotomy are frequently used in intensive care units. Use of the apheresis technique for the treatment of various diseases in critically ill patients is growing day by day. There are increasing evidences for using apheresis as a primary therapy or as an adjunct to other therapies for various diseases such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, haemolytic uremic syndrome, drug toxicities, autoimmune disease, sepsis and fulminant hepatic failure. Apheresis is an invasive procedure. It has significant physiologic consequences, so the care of these patients requires continuous supervision. Phlebotomy is performed as an intervention for some disease management. Its use is nowadays restricted to conditions such as polycythaemia, haemochromatosis and porphyria cutanea tarda. In this review, we have looked at various indications, procedure and complications of apheresis and phlebotomy in critical care unit.

Membrane and centrifugal therapeutic plasma exchange: practical difficulties in anticoagulating the extracorporeal circuit

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is a well-established treatment modality for nephrology patients, using two conventional methods: membrane (mTPE) or centrifugal TPE (cTPE). Although the efficacy of both treatments has been described, there are few reports that compare these methodologies. Here we describe three nephrology patients who were treated with both mTPE and cTPE. The mTPE method, but not the cTPE method, was associated with persistent difficulty anticoagulating the extracorporeal circuit in all three patients. In mTPE procedures, the doses of heparin bolus and infusion rate were important determinants of whether the circuit clotted. With a heparin bolus at or below 2000 IU, clotting occurred in 67% of treatments, dropping to 25% with a bolus of >2000 IU. Likewise, a heparin infusion rate during the procedure was indicative of clotting. With a maintenance infusion of <2000 IU/h, most circuits clotted. No clotting was observed during cTPE procedures using acid citrate dextrose formula A solution as an anticoagulant of the extracorporeal circuit. Overall, difficulties maintaining the extracorporeal circuit in mTPE required the use of additional disposable sets, high doses of heparin and nursing time. In addition, mTPE procedures took longer to perform than cTPE.

Therapeutic plasma exchange for the treatment of pediatric renal diseases in 2013

Therapeutic plasma exchange is an extracorporeal treatment modality that removes systemic circulating pathologic factors or replaces absent plasma components and plays a role in many nephrologic conditions. It presents a number of technical challenges in the pediatric population but has become an increasingly common practice in pediatric nephrology over the past several decades. While prospective evidence is often lacking, our increased understanding of the molecular pathogenesis underlying many pediatric renal diseases provides sound reasoning for the use of plasma exchange in treating these conditions. This review will present the currently accepted indications for plasma exchange in children, the technical aspects of the procedure and its potential complications.

Extracorporeal photopheresis in the treatment of graft-versus-host disease: evidence and opinion

Despite significant advances in prevention and treatment strategies, graft-versus-host disease remains the most significant cause of morbidity and nonrelapse mortality after allogeneic hematopoietic cellular transplantation. Corticosteroids remain the standard frontline therapy for graft-versus-host disease; however, a considerable number of patients will not respond adequately and others will be significantly affected by adverse effects. Extracorporeal photopheresis is one of several secondary therapies which have shown promise in the clinical setting. While the procedure itself has been around for over 20 years, our understanding of the mechanisms from which therapeutic benefits are seen, and the population they are seen in, remains limited. In this article, we review the use of extracorporeal photopheresis for the treatment of graft-versus-host disease including details covering the procedure's mechanism of action, safety profile and clinical efficacy data.

Exchange transfusion for severe malaria: evidence base and literature review

BACKGROUND

Exchange transfusion (ET) has biologic plausibility as an adjunct to antimalarial drugs in treating severe malaria and has been used for decades despite limited evidence of its efficacy in improving survival. We examined the efficacy of ET as an adjunct treatment for severe malaria using US surveillance data and reviewed the literature to update recommendations.

METHODS

Patients with severe malaria reported to the US national malaria surveillance system during 1985-2010 were matched, and survival outcomes were compared between patients receiving and not receiving ET. The literature review used search terms "severe malaria" and "exchange transfusion." Case reports and series, observational and case-control studies, and meta-analysis were included.

RESULTS

One hundred one patients receiving ET were matched to 314 patients not receiving ET. There was no statistically significant association between ET and survival outcome (odds ratio, 0.84; 95% confidence interval, .44-1.60). We found 87 articles, mostly case reports or series, showing successful use of ET, likely reporting bias. There were 12 comparative studies, most of which were retrospective cohort studies, underpowered with no significant differences in survival. A previously published meta-analysis of 8 comparative studies found no significant survival differences. Adverse events were rarely reported but included acute respiratory distress syndrome, ventricular fibrillation, and hypotension.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite rapid parasite clearance times resulting from ET, there is no evidence for efficacy of ET as adjunctive therapy in severe malaria. Adjunct ET cannot be recommended. When rapidly acting antimalarials, specifically artemisinins, become more widely available, the biologic plausibility argument for ET will become less relevant.

Limiting the Extent of a Delayed Hemolytic Transfusion Reaction With Automated Red Blood Cell Exchange

Delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions (DHTRs) are mediated by blood group antibodies that undergo anamnestic increases following antigen reexposure. Available options for the treatment or prophylaxis of DHTRs are limited. We report the use of automated red blood cell exchange (ARE) to limit hemolysis associated with an emerging DHTR. Following transfusion of 12 red blood cell units, a family member's comments led to the discovery of a patient's history of 4 alloantibodies (anti-E, anti-c, anti-Fya, and anti-M). Testing revealed that all 12 units were incompatible for at least 1 antigen. Six days after transfusion, the patient developed a newly positive antibody screen and direct antiglobulin test (DAT) result. To prevent further hemolysis, ARE was performed to replace incompatible red blood cells with antigen-negative units. After ARE, the patient's DAT results were negative and he was discharged without demonstrating symptoms of hemolysis. This case illustrates the use of ARE to limit hemolysis and prevent symptoms of a DHTR.

The results of therapeutic plasma exchange in patients with severe hyperthyroidism: a retrospective multicenter study

Hyperthyroidism characterized by elevated serum levels of circulating thyroid hormones. The aim of hyperthyroidism treatment is to achieve a euthyroid state as soon as possible and to maintain euthyroid status. However, drug withdrawal and utilization of alternative therapies are needed in cases in which leucopenia or impairment in liver functions is observed during medical therapy. In the present study, we aimed to present our cases which underwent therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) due to severe hyperthyroidism. The results of 22 patients who underwent therapeutic plasma exchange due to hyperthyroidism in Apheresis Units of Erciyes University and Gaziantep University, between 2006 and 2012, were retrospectively reviewed. These cases had severe thyrotoxic values despite anti-thyroid drug use. After TPE, we observed a significant decrease in free thyroxin (FT4) (p<0.001) and free triiodotyhronin (FT3) (p<0.004) levels. There was statistically significant increase in the mean values of TSH levels after TPE (p<0.001). Clinical improvement was achieved in hyperthyroidism by TPE in 20 cases (91%). Both FT3 and FT4 levels remained above the normal limits in two of 22 patients. TPE should be considered as an effective and safe therapeutic option to achieve euthyroid state before surgery or radioactive iodine treatment. TPE is a useful option in cases with severe hyperthyroidism unresponsive to anti-thyroid agents and in those with clinical manifestations of cardiac failure and in patients with severe adverse events during anti-thyroid therapy.

An analysis of leukapheresis and central venous catheter use in the randomized, placebo controlled, phase 3 IMPACT trial of Sipuleucel-T for metastatic castrate resistant prostate cancer

PURPOSE

Sipuleucel-T is an autologous cellular immunotherapy. We review the safety of the leukapheresis procedure required for sipuleucel-T preparation and complications related to venous catheter use in the randomized, placebo controlled phase 3 IMPACT (IMmunotherapy for ProstAte Cancer Trial) study (NCT 00065442).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 512 patients with asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic metastatic castrate resistant prostate cancer were enrolled in the study. All patients were scheduled to undergo 3 standard 1.5 to 2.0 blood volume leukapheresis procedures at 2-week intervals. Leukapheresis related adverse events and those related to venous catheter use were reviewed. Immune cell counts were examined throughout the treatment course.

RESULTS

Of 512 enrolled patients 506 underwent 1 or more leukapheresis procedures and were included in this analysis. Adverse events were comparable between the sipuleucel-T and control arms. Leukapheresis related adverse events were primarily associated with transient hypocalcemia (39.3%). Most leukapheresis related adverse events (97%) were of mild/moderate intensity. Median white blood cell count and absolute monocyte and lymphocyte counts were stable and within normal ranges throughout the treatment course. Of all patients 23.3% had a central venous catheter placed primarily for leukapheresis. Patients with vs without a central venous catheter had a higher risk of infection potentially related to catheter use (11.9% vs 1.3%, p <0.0001) and a trend toward a higher incidence of venous vascular events potentially related to catheter use, excluding the central nervous system (5.9% vs 2.1%, p = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

Adverse events related to leukapheresis are manageable and quickly reversible. The majority of patients can undergo leukapheresis without a central venous catheter. Central venous catheters are associated with an increased risk of infections and venous vascular events. Peripheral intravenous access should be used when feasible.

Surviving the storm: two cases of thyroid storm successfully treated with plasmapheresis

Thyroid storm is a rare, but critical, illness that can lead to multiorgan failure and carries a high death rate. The following case series describes two adult men with Graves' disease who presented in thyroid storm and either failed or could not tolerate conventional medical management. However, both patients responded well to plasmapheresis, which resulted in clinical and biochemical stabilisation of their disease processes. The treatment option of plasmapheresis should be considered as a stabilising measure, especially when patients have failed or cannot tolerate conventional therapy. Plasmapheresis leads to amelioration of symptoms and a significant decline in thyroid hormone levels, providing a window to treat definitively with thyroidectomy.

Leukoreduction in patients with severe pertussis with hyperleukocytosis

When pertussis is associated with hyperleukocytosis, mortality approaches to 80%. Immature leukocytes have been identified in pulmonary arterioles, small arteries and venules. Techniques aimed at reducing leukocyte mass might improve the prognosis of these patients. We report our experience with 3 patients in whom a leukoreduction was performed in the context of severe pertussis and hyperleukocytosis.