Rheopheresis: A narrative review

Int J Artif Organs. 2022 May;45(5):445-454. doi: 10.1177/03913988221086597. Epub 2022 Apr 7.

Abstract

Introduction: Rheopheresis is an extracorporal selective double-filtration procedure with an initial separation of plasma from the whole blood and a further filtration of the plasma through a second filter in order to eliminate a certain number of high molecular weight proteins such LDL, Lp(a), fibrinogen, α2-macroglobulin, Factor von Willebrand, and IgM Immunoglobulin.

Methods: In this narrative review we discuss the available data on the effects of Rheopheresis in various clinical conditions.

Results: Rheopheresis is considerd to exert a rapid effect on clinical conditions associated with seriously affected microcirculation and rheologic parameters such as, the dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHS), peripheral artery disease (PAD), calciphylaxis, systemic sclerosis and diabetic foot.

Conclusions: Rheopheresis is a promising technique for conditions associated with affected microcirculatory rheologic parameters.

Keywords: Rheopheresis; haemorheopheresis; rheohaemapheresis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Blood Component Removal* / methods
  • Filtration
  • Humans
  • Macular Degeneration* / therapy
  • Microcirculation
  • Plasmapheresis / methods