Plasmapheresis

Plasmapheresis at Dr. Kiran's Renal Center:

We offer a wide range of cutting-edge treatments to address complex renal and autoimmune conditions. One of the specialized services we provide is plasmapheresis, an advanced procedure designed to remove harmful substances from the bloodstream, providing relief from conditions that affect the kidneys and other organs.

What is Plasmapheresis?

Plasmapheresis, also known as therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), is a medical procedure where blood is removed from the body, processed to remove harmful components (such as antibodies, toxins, or abnormal proteins), and then returned to the patient. This technique is primarily used to treat various autoimmune and kidney-related disorders, as it targets and filters out substances that can cause inflammation or damage to the kidneys.

How Does Plasmapheresis Work?

During plasmapheresis, blood is drawn from the patient’s body and passed through a machine that separates the plasma (the liquid portion of blood) from the blood cells. The plasma is then replaced with a replacement solution, which could be donor plasma or other suitable fluids. This process helps remove immune complexes, antibodies, and other factors that contribute to kidney damage or disease.

During plasmapheresis, blood is drawn from the patient’s body and passed through a machine that separates the plasma (the liquid portion of blood) from the blood cells. The plasma is then replaced with a replacement solution, which could be donor plasma or other suitable fluids. This process helps remove immune complexes, antibodies, and other factors that contribute to kidney damage or disease.

Conditions Treated with Plasmapheresis

Plasmapheresis can be an effective treatment for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

• Anti-Glomerular Basement Membrane Disease (Goodpasture’s Syndrome):A rare autoimmune disease that can cause kidney failure.
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE):A chronic autoimmune condition that can affect multiple organs, including the kidneys.
• Nephrotic Syndrome:A kidney disorder that causes excessive protein loss in the urine.
• Myasthenia Gravis:A neuromuscular disorder that can be treated with plasmapheresis to reduce symptoms.
• TTP (Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura):A blood disorder that can affect kidney function and requires immediate intervention.
• Goodpasture’s Syndrome:Another condition in which plasmapheresis may be used to remove antibodies affecting the kidneys.

What to Expect During Plasmapheresis Treatment?

The plasmapheresis procedure typically takes a few hours. Patients may be asked to sit or lie comfortably while the treatment is being performed. Since plasmapheresis involves the use of a needle for blood collection, it is a minimally invasive procedure, and patients are monitored throughout the treatment to ensure their safety and comfort.

Plasmapheresis is a vital tool in treating kidney and autoimmune conditions, and at Dr. Kiran's Renal Center, we are committed to offering this innovative procedure to help our patients achieve better outcomes.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of kidney disease, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. At Dr. Kiran’s Renal Center, we are here to provide the expert care you need. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation.