Haematologist warns against plasmapheresis outside specialised medical settings

Nicosia, Cyprus. Haematologist Sotiris Koumas has warned against the use of plasmapheresis outside established therapeutic settings, saying the procedure carries risks ranging from mild to serious complications and should only be carried out at specialised centres.

Speaking to CNA amid public discussion following the death of Giorgos Mazonakis and reports linking plasmapheresis to anti-ageing treatments, Koumas said it was a specific medical procedure used to treat certain conditions.

Medical uses

Plasmapheresis is used in several medical specialties, including haematology and neurology. The procedure involves removing and replacing a patient’s plasma, the liquid component of blood that carries proteins, antibodies and clotting factors.

Koumas said pathological proteins, autoantibodies and other potentially harmful substances can accumulate in plasma in some conditions.

He cited thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura as an example in which plasmapheresis may be required, adding that early diagnosis and treatment can be crucial to survival.

“The earlier you make the diagnosis, the earlier you start plasmapheresis – and we’re talking hours – the better the patient’s chances of survival,” he said.

Risks and specialist care

Koumas said treatment may require cooperation between haematologists, nephrologists, intensive care specialists and surgeons, alongside specialised nursing staff.

He said complications can range from mild to particularly serious. Catheter placement may cause injury or bleeding, while a catheter left in place during treatment can become infected or develop a clot.

During plasmapheresis, blood passes through a specialised machine that separates and removes plasma before blood cells are returned to the patient. Replacement fluid is administered to compensate for the plasma removed.