Q:
Is plasmapheresis a therapy for myasthenia gravis?
A:
Plasmapheresis is one of the intravenous therapies.
This procedure uses a filtering process similar to dialysis. Your blood is routed through a machine that removes the antibodies that block transmission of signals from your nerve endings to your muscles’ receptor sites.
However, the beneficial effects usually last only a few weeks.
After repeated treatments, it may be difficult for doctors to gain access to your vein. They may need to implant a long, flexible tube (catheter) into your chest to conduct the procedure.
Other risks associated with plasmapheresis include a drop in blood pressure, bleeding, heart rhythm problems or muscle cramps. Some people may also develop an allergic reaction to the solutions used to replace the plasma.
Key word: plasmapheresis myasthenia gravis
