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Background Pregnant people with baseline hypertriglyceridemia are at increased risk of severe hypertriglyceridemia and the associated complications, yet there are no formal recommendations to guide management of these patients during pregnancy.

Matching for the rhesus (Rh) blood group is currently not taken into account in the organ allocation system. However, in Rh-mismatched transplantation, the primary concern is the potential for RhD-negative recipients to develop sensitization and produce anti-D antibodies if they receive a transfusion of RhD-positive blood. It is estimated that over 80% of RhD-negative recipients may experience Rh allosensitization when exposed to RhD-positive blood, although this occurrence is less common in recipients of solid organs. In theory, RhD-negative recipients who receive organs from RhD-positive donors are at risk of alloimmunization and the production of anti-D antibodies, which could complicate future blood product transfusions. However, our understanding of the impact of donor-recipient Rh mismatch on transplant outcomes, particularly in heart transplantation, is limited. We report a case of successful Rh-mismatched heart transplantation, which was effectively managed through the use of preoperative RhD immunoglobulin and plasmapheresis.

Russell's viper is one of the ‘big four' most dangerous poisonous snakes in India. The farmer and snakes, especially the Russell's viper, coexist in tenuous relationship in the ecosystem. The clinical manifestations of viper bite are localized pain and swelling, coagulopathy, and renal impairment. The venom induced consumption coagulopathy (VICC) following Russell's viper bite can result in a syndrome consistent with thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), manifesting with thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) and acute kidney injury (AKI). TMA is rarely reported as a complication of Russell's viper envenoming. Our patient, a farmer, was bitten by Russell's viper and was brought to a nearby hospital within an hour. He was administered anti-snake venom (ASV) and supportive therapy. As his renal function declined, he was transferred to our hospital. He developed thrombocytopenia, and MAHA as evidenced by progressive anemia, schistocytes on peripheral smear, increased levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and AKI unresponsive to fluid management and diuretic administration. He was managed with sustained low-efficiency dialysis (SLED) and therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). After three cycles of TPE and seven cycles of SLED over the next three weeks, the patient recovered completely and has been asymptomatic for more than six-months during follow up. The case is reported for rarity of TMA in the Russell's viper envenomation, and the role of TPE in such cases.

Objective To investigate the level of serum bone metabolism and biochemical markers and bone density of plasmapheresis donors, and to provide scientific basis for ensuring the health and safety of plasmapheresis donors in China. Methods A total of 437 plasmapheresis donors from Linwu plasmapheresis station in Hunan Province from July 1 to September 30, 2022 were recruited to determine the levels of total serum calcium, albumin, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), serum type I procollagen N-terminal propeptide (P1NP), and collagen type 1 crosslinked carboxyl-terminal peptide (β-CTX). Dual-energy X-ray method was used to measure the bone density of the anteroposterior lumbar spine (L1-L4) and bilateral femoral neck bone density of plasmapheresis donors. Plasmapheresis donors were grouped according to the type of plasma donation (first-time and repeat plasmapheresis donors) and the total number of plasma donations to assess the differences in bone density and serum bone metabolism biochemical markers between groups. The dose-response relationship between the total number of plasmapheresis donations and biochemical indexes was analyzed by limiting cubic spline, and the influencing factors of different indexes were explored by multiple linear regression. Results A total of 437 plasmapheresis donors were included in this study, including 187 first-time plasmapheresis donors and 250 repeat plasmapheresis donors. There were no significant differences in bone density and prevalence of osteoporosis between first-time donors and repeat donors (P>0.05). There was also no significant difference in bone density levels between groups of total number of plasmapheresis donations. The levels of albumin and 25OHD decreased with the increase of the total number of plasma donations, while the serum P1NP level was positively correlated with the total number of plasma donations. The results of the restriction cubic spline showed that the total number of plasmapheresis donations had a nonlinear dose-response relationship with 25OH and P1NP (P

Abstract Background Despite a lack of clear evidence extracorporeal blood purification (EBP) is increasingly used as an adjunctive treatment in septic shock based on its biological plausibility. However, current state of praxis and believes in both efficacy and level of evidence are very heterogeneous. Methods The “EXPLORATION” (Current Clinical Practice in using adjunctive extracorporeal blood purification in septic shock), a web-based survey endorsed by the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM), questioned both the current local clinical practices as well as future perspectives of EBP in sepsis and septic shock. Results One hundred and two people participated in the survey. The majority of three quarters of participants (74.5%) use adjunctive EBP in their clinical routine with a varying frequency of description. Unselective cytokine adsorption (CA) (37.5%) and therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) (34.1%) were by far the most commonly used modalities. While the overall theoretical rational was found to be moderate to high by the majority of the participants (74%), the effectively existing clinical evidence was acknowledged to be rather low (66%). Although CA was used most frequently in clinical practice, both the best existing clinical evidence endorsing its current use (45%) as well the highest potential to be explored in future clinical trials (51.5%) was attributed to TPE. Conclusions Although the majority of participants use EBP techniques in their clinical practice and acknowledge a subjective good theoretical rationale behind it, the clinical evidence is assessed to be limited. While both CA and TPE are by far the most common used technique, both clinical evidence as well as future potential for further exploration in clinical trials was assessed to be the highest for TPE.

This article discusses the case of a 57-year-old male with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who experienced severe liver toxicity after receiving pegaspargase, a type of asparaginase used in ALL treatment. The patient's liver function tests increased, and high levels of asparaginase activity were detected in the serum. To address this toxicity, the patient underwent plasmapheresis, a procedure to remove asparaginase from the circulation. This intervention resulted in a rapid decrease in asparaginase activity and normalization of liver function. The authors suggest that plasmapheresis should be considered in the treatment of severe asparaginase toxicities. [Extracted from the article]

Lipodystrophies involve the loss of subcutaneous adipose tissue, resulting in severe metabolic issues such as insulin resistance and challenging diabetes management. This case series aims to assess bromocriptine treatment response in lipodystrophy patients, offering insights into its antidiabetic effects. This retrospective analysis focused on four female lipodystrophy patients with poor glycemic control who were undergoing bromocriptine treatment. Statistical analysis used nonparametric tests. Metabolic parameters were assessed before and 3 months post-bromocriptine treatment, revealing a modest reduction in median daily insulin dose and decreased hemoglobin A1c and fasting glucose levels. Body weight remained constant, while triglyceride levels increased. Dopamine receptor expression in pancreatic ß-cells and adipocytes suggests a direct impact on glucose homeostasis. While this case series hints at bromocriptine's positive influence on glycemic control and insulin requirements in lipodystrophy patients, larger studies are essential for establishing efficacy and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nivolumab, an immune check point inhibitor (ICI), inhibits programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and increases the immunity to fight against the cancer cells. Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare and lifethreatening adverse effect triggered by nivolumab. We described a 65-year-old patient with the hepatocellular carcinoma who developedMG and myositis after one cycle of nivolumab. The myasthenic symptoms deteriorated to impending myasthenic crisis in few days despite high dose steroids. We performed plasmapheresis and reversed the progressions to respiratory failure. Early recognition and comprehensive investigation of MG is important in these patients with ICI therapy. Concurrent treatments of plasmapheresis and steroids for ICI-relatedMG may be an effective management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the use of an autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) donor kidney in a paediatric recipient. A 14-year-old boy on haemodialysis for 4 years following loss of a first kidney transplant, highly sensitised, and with limited vascular options for ongoing dialysis access, was offered a deceased brain death donor transplant from a mid-30s donor with known ADPKD but normal kidney function and negligible proteinuria. After extensive discussion with the patient and family, discussing all alternative options and review of available literature, the kidney was accepted and implanted. Graft function was immediate. An early post-transplant creatinine rise was attributed to possible antibody-mediated rejection, treated with plasmapheresis and rituximab. Ten months post-transplant, the patient remains dialysis-free with stable function. Extended criteria kidneys are already considered for highly sensitised or long-waiting dialysis patients. Though the literature is limited, kidneys from patients with ADPKD could be considered within extended criteria offers on a case-by-case basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Highly sensitized pediatric patients awaiting heart transplantation experience longer wait times and thus higher waitlist mortality. Similarly, children less than 2 years of age have increased waitlist times and mortality when compared to their older peers. To improve the likelihood of successful transplantation in these patients, various strategies have been utilized, including peri-operative plasmapheresis. However, limited data exists comparing plasmapheresis techniques for antibody reduction. This study’s aim was to compare the in vitro magnitude of isohemagglutinin titers (IT) and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibody removal and the time required between membrane-based plasmapheresis (MP) and centrifuge-based plasmapheresis (CP) incorporated into the extracorporeal (EC) circuit. Methods: Two MP (Prismaflex) and two CP (Spectra Optia, Terumo BCT) circuits were incorporated into four separate EC circuits primed with high titer, highly sensitized type O donor whole blood. Assays were performed to determine baseline IT and anti-HLA antibodies and then at 30-minute increments until completion of the run (two plasma volume exchanges) at two hours. Results: There was a decrease in anti-A and anti-B IgM and IgG titers with both MP and CP. Mean anti-A and anti-B titer reduction was by 4.625 titers (93.7% change) and 4.375 titers (93.8% change) using MP and CP, respectively. At 2 h of apheresis, CP reduced 62.5% of all ITs to ≤ 1:4, while MP reduced 50% of ITs to ≤ 1:4. Additionally, reduction of anti-HLA class II antibody to mean fluorescence intensity (MFI)

Abstract Background Guillain–Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a common differential diagnosis of acute-onset flaccid quadriparesis with or without bulbar involvement. Various illnesses precede GBS, respiratory illness being the most common. Campylobacter jejuni is the single most common organism found associated with GBS. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni positivity in different subtypes of GBS. Methods Sixty patients of GBS were tested for serological evidence of Campylobacter jejuni and compared with 60 age and sex matched controls. Results Mean age of cases was 39.58 (± 14.76 years) and that of controls was 35 (± 12.31 years). Preceding illness was present in 38% cases. Respiratory tract illness was present in 9 (15%) cases, while as GI illness was present in 8 (13%) cases. AIDP was the most common variant accounting for 65% of cases, followed by AMAN (18.3%). Among cases, 24 (40%) tested positive for Campylobacter jejuni antibody whereas only 12 (20%) tested positive for antibody among controls. The difference was statistically significant between cases and controls (p value = 0.003). There was no statistically significant difference in antibody positivity and preceding illness among different variants of GBS (p value = 1.0). Conclusion Campylobacter jejuni infection is a frequent preceding illness in GBS patients, although it may be asymptomatic. There is however no relation between different subtypes of GBS and C. jejuni infection.

Myasthenic crisis, a life-threatening exacerbation of myasthenia gravis, is a significant clinical challenge, particularly when refractory to standard therapies. Here, we described a case of myasthenic crisis in which the patient transitioned from refractory myasthenic crisis to minimal symptom expression after receiving add-on treatment with efgartigimod, a novel neonatal Fc receptor antagonist. A 54 years-old woman who was diagnosed with anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody-positive myasthenia gravis experienced respiratory failure necessitating mechanical ventilation. Despite aggressive treatment with plasmapheresis, intravenous immunoglobulins, and high-dose corticosteroids, her condition continued to deteriorate, culminating in persistent myasthenic crisis. Efgartigimod was administered as salvage therapy. Remarkable improvement in neuromuscular function was observed within days, allowing for successful weaning from mechanical ventilation. Over the subsequent weeks, the patient's symptoms continued to ameliorate, ultimately reaching a state of minimal symptom expression. Serial assessments of her serum antiacetylcholine receptor antibody titer showed a consistent decline in parallel with this clinical improvement. This case highlights efgartigimod's potential as an effective therapeutic option for refractory myasthenic crisis, offering new hope for patients facing this life-threatening condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The present study aims to evaluate the iron stores in plasmapheresis donors and develop and validate an iron deficiency (ID) risk prediction model for plasmapheresis donors with potential or existing ID. Materials and Methods: We assessed plasmapheresis donors' serum ferritin (SF) and haemoglobin (Hb) levels. The candidate factors showing significant differences in the multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to establish a risk prediction scoring system. The participants were divided into a training cohort and an internal validation cohort in a 7:3 ratio. Additional plasmapheresis donors from a different station were recruited for external validation. Results: The SF levels in both male and female donors in the high‐frequency group were significantly lower than those of new donors (male: p < 0.001; female: p = 0.008). The prevalence of ID in female regular donors with a high frequency was significantly higher than that in new donors (33.1% vs. 24.6%; odds ratio = 1.209 [95% CI: 1.035–1.412]). Donation frequency, age, Hb, body mass index and being pre‐menopausal were identified as independent risk factors for ID (p < 0.05). The developed model exhibited good discrimination ability (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve >0.7) and calibration (p > 0.05) in development, internal validation cohorts and external validation cohorts. Conclusion: A higher donation frequency has been associated with reduced SF levels and an increased risk of ID in women. The developed ID risk prediction model demonstrates moderate discriminative power and good model fitting, suggesting its potential clinical utility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Most research studies on the effects of repeated plasma donation are observational with different study limitations, resulting in high uncertainty on the link between repeated plasma donation and health consequences. Here, we prospectively investigated the safety of intensive or less intensive plasma donation protocols. Materials and Methods: Sixty‐three male subjects participated in this randomized controlled trial and were divided into low‐frequency (LF, once/month, n = 16), high‐frequency (HF, three times/month, n = 16), very high‐frequency (VHF, two times/week, n = 16) and a placebo (P, once/month, n = 15) groups. Biochemical, haematological, clinical, physiological and exercise‐related data were collected before (D0), after 1½ months (D42) and after 3 months (D84) of donation. Results: In VHF, red blood cells, haemoglobin and haematocrit levels decreased while reticulocyte levels increased from D0 to D84. In both HF and VHF, plasma ferritin levels were lower at D42 and D84 compared to D0. In VHF, plasma levels of albumin, immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) dropped from D0 to D42 and remained lower at D84 than at D0. In HF, plasma IgG, IgA and IgM were lower at D42, and IgG and IgM were lower at D84, compared to D0. Few adverse events were reported in HF and VHF. Repeated plasma donation had no effect on blood pressure, body composition or exercise performance. Conclusion: VHF plasmapheresis may result in a large reduction in ferritin and IgG levels. HF and VHF plasmapheresis may result in little to no difference in other biochemical, haematological, clinical, physiological and exercise‐related parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: As part of a large‐scale project to safely increase plasma collection in Europe, the current scoping review identifies the existing evidence (gaps) on adverse events (AEs) and other health effects in plasmapheresis donors, as well as factors that may be associated with such events/effects. Materials and Methods: We searched six databases and three registries. Study characteristics (publication type, language, study design, population, outcomes, associated factors, time of assessment, duration of follow‐up, number and frequency of donations, convalescent plasma [y/n], setting and location) were synthesized narratively and in an interactive evidence gap map (EGM). Results: Ninety‐four research articles and five registrations were identified. Around 90% were observational studies (57 controlled and 33 uncontrolled), and most of them were performed in Europe (55%) or the United States (20%). Factors studied in association with donor health included donor characteristics (e.g., sex, age) (n = 27), cumulative number of donations (n = 21), donation frequency (n = 11), plasma collection device or programme (n = 11), donor status (first time vs. repeat) (n = 10), donation volume per session (n = 8), time in donation programme (n = 3), preventive measures (n = 2) or other (n = 9). Conclusion: The current scoping review provides an accessible tool for researchers and policymakers to identify the available evidence (gaps) concerning plasmapheresis donation safety. Controlled prospective studies with long‐term donor follow‐up are scarce. Furthermore, additional experimental studies comparing the health effects of different donation frequencies are required to inform a safe upper limit for donation frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many blood establishments are expanding plasmapheresis collection capacity to achieve increasing plasma for fractionation volume targets, driven by immunoglobulin product demand. Some adverse events occur in both apheresis and whole blood collection, such as venepuncture‐related trauma and vasovagal reactions. Others are specifically related to the apheresis procedure, such as citrate reactions, haemolysis, infiltration and air embolism. Whilst plasmapheresis procedures are generally well tolerated, theoretical longer term donor health considerations, such as the effects on donor plasma protein levels, bone mineral density, iron deficiency and malignancy also require consideration. An evidence‐based framework that supports a safe and sustainable increase in the collection of plasma is essential. Our review demonstrates a lack of high‐quality evidence on risks and outcomes specifically in plasmapheresis. Whilst conservative procedural controls and donor harm minimization policies will mitigate risk, high‐quality evidence is needed to facilitate practice change that is safe and sustainable and maximizes the potential of individual donor differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: We present the case of an adult female who had rheumatoid arthritis at first but later tested positive for Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS). In symptomatic GBS patients (related to large joints), physicians (and therapists) should consider rheumatoid arthritis when risk factors are present. The co‐existence of GBS and other autoimmune disorders is uncommon. We present the case of an adult female who had rheumatoid arthritis at first but later tested positive for GBS. Further details are provided regarding the interdisciplinary diagnostic and therapy strategy that led to the patient's complete recovery. An adult female patient with rheumatoid arthritis presented with progressive weakness in her lower limbs, affecting her arm and causing numbness in her left hand and bilateral lower limbs. She has not passed stool for the last 2 days and has experienced gastroenteritis with watery, profuse diarrhea. On admission, the patient was awake, alert, and able to communicate. She had a thorough history of vital signs, with no signs of dehydration, jaundice, pallor, or edema. The patient's lower limbs were hypotonic and her upper limbs were normal. She experienced loss of sensation in her lower limbs, vibration, and proprioception. The patient's EMG‐NCS report indicated sensory and motor axonal neuropathy (AMSAN variant). Plasmapheresis sessions were finished in our patient, and a very good result was achieved. In symptomatic GBS patients (related to large joints), physicians (and therapists) should consider rheumatoid arthritis when risk factors are present. Appropriate clinical treatment, which includes prompt evaluation of alternate diagnoses in the case of therapeutic failure, can improve patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the serological factors in predicting symptom improvement in myasthenia gravis (MG) patients who underwent plasmapheresis (PP). Methods: The relationship between symptom improvement and change in immunoglobin G (IgG) and acetylcholine receptor antibody (AchR‐Ab) levels in 21 MG patients after PP was analyzed. Results: Patients were divided into two groups: the favorable (n = 11) or unfavorable (n = 10) response groups around the median MG composite improvement rate (50 [29, 56]%) 2 weeks after a PP course. In all patients, the IgG reduction rate before and after PP was higher in the favorable than the unfavorable response group. In AChR‐Ab‐positive patients, IgG and AChR‐Ab reduction rates were higher in the favorable than the unfavorable response group. Conclusion: IgG reduction rate is a predictor of symptom improvement in MG patients who underwent PP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis is a rare acute demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). The pathogenesis remains unclear but is suspected to be autoimmune. High doses of methylprednisolone (HDMP) are currently considered standard of treatment. Plasmapheresis (PE) is typically given in steroid refractory cases. There is currently limited evidence supporting its use in ADEM. Materials and Methods: We report a 16‐year‐old girl with ADEM who improved rapidly after initiating PE. Results: The patient presented with acute onset of multifocal CNS symptoms, including encephalopathy, requiring intensive care unit management. Despite HDMP administration, her clinical condition continued to deteriorate. PE was therefore initiated on the same day as HDMP. Her clinical condition improved significantly following the first session. She was extubated and discharged from the intensive care unit the following day. Conclusion: HDMP combined with PE may be an effective first‐line treatment in patients with fulminant ADEM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Anti‐dipeptidyl‐peptidase‐like protein 6 (DPPX) encephalitis is a rare condition with varied symptoms including gastrointestinal issues, weight loss, cognitive and mental dysfunction, and hyperexcitability of the central nervous system. Methods: We studied five patients with anti‐DPPX encephalitis who received immunotherapy, specifically DFPP, at our hospital. We analyzed their clinical symptoms, lab results, electrophysiological and imaging findings, and outcomes with immunotherapy. Results: Patients presented with cognitive dysfunction, tremor, seizures, psychiatric disturbances, and cerebellar and brainstem dysfunction. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed brain abnormalities in one patient and elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein levels in two patients. Antibodies against DPPX were detected in all patients and in CSF in two patients. One patient had antibodies against anti‐CV2/contactin response mediator protein 5 (CRMP5). All patients responded well to DFPP and corticosteroids. Conclusion: DFPP may be an effective treatment for anti‐DPPX encephalitis. Further research is needed to understand disease progression and evaluate immunotherapy efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Nivolumab can cause fatal myocarditis. We aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics of nivolumab-induced myocarditis and provide evidence for clinical diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Studies involving nivolumab-induced myocarditis were identified in electronic databases from 2000 to 2023 for retrospective analysis. A total of 66 patients were included, with a median age of 68 years. The median onset time of myocarditis is 11.5 days. The main organs affected in persons presented with myocarditis are heart (100.0%) and skeletal muscle (22.7%). The main clinical manifestations are dyspnea (49.2%), fatigue (47.6%), and myalgias (25.4%). The levels of troponin, troponin T, troponin I, creatine kinase, creatine kinase myocardial band, creatine phosphokinase, C-reactive protein, brain natriuretic peptide, and N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide precursor were significantly increased. Histopathology often shows lymphocyte infiltration, myocardial necrosis, and fibrosis. Myocardial immunological parameters usually present positive. Cardiac imaging often suggests complete heart block, intraventricular conduction delay, arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, edema, left ventricular ejection fractions reduction, ventricular dysfunction, and other symptoms of myocarditis. Forty-two (63.6%) patients achieved remission within a median time of 8 days after discontinuation of nivolumab and treatment with systemic corticosteroids, immunoglobulins, plasmapheresis, and immunosuppressant. Thirty-five patients eventually died attributed to myocarditis (68.6%), cancer (20.0%), respiratory failure (5.7%), and other reasons (5.7%). Nivolumab-induced myocarditis should be comprehensively diagnosed based on clinical symptoms, histopathological manifestations, immunological parameters, and cardiac function imaging examinations. Nivolumab should be discontinued immediately, plasmapheresis and systemic corticosteroids combined with immunoglobulins or immunosuppressants may be an effective treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Despite a lack of clear evidence extracorporeal blood purification (EBP) is increasingly used as an adjunctive treatment in septic shock based on its biological plausibility. However, current state of praxis and believes in both efficacy and level of evidence are very heterogeneous. Methods: The "EXPLORATION" (Current Clinical Practice in using adjunctive extracorporeal blood purification in septic shock), a web-based survey endorsed by the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM), questioned both the current local clinical practices as well as future perspectives of EBP in sepsis and septic shock. Results: One hundred and two people participated in the survey. The majority of three quarters of participants (74.5%) use adjunctive EBP in their clinical routine with a varying frequency of description. Unselective cytokine adsorption (CA) (37.5%) and therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) (34.1%) were by far the most commonly used modalities. While the overall theoretical rational was found to be moderate to high by the majority of the participants (74%), the effectively existing clinical evidence was acknowledged to be rather low (66%). Although CA was used most frequently in clinical practice, both the best existing clinical evidence endorsing its current use (45%) as well the highest potential to be explored in future clinical trials (51.5%) was attributed to TPE. Conclusions: Although the majority of participants use EBP techniques in their clinical practice and acknowledge a subjective good theoretical rationale behind it, the clinical evidence is assessed to be limited. While both CA and TPE are by far the most common used technique, both clinical evidence as well as future potential for further exploration in clinical trials was assessed to be the highest for TPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple myeloma associated with bleeding events secondary to von Willebrand syndrome is underdiagnosed. The management of this entity is highly complex, and aims to control the hemorrhagic syndrome and reduce plasma viscosity with plasmapheresis and multiple myeloma-specific treatment. The authors report the rare case of a young patient with high-risk multiple myeloma complicated by hyperviscosity syndrome and presenting an acquired von Willebrand syndrome with hemorrhagic manifestations, requiring urgent therapeutic management to save the patient's life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Russell's viper is one of the 'big four' most dangerous poisonous snakes in India. The farmer and snakes, especially the Russell's viper, coexist in tenuous relationship in the ecosystem. The clinical manifestations of viper bite are localized pain and swelling, coagulopathy, and renal impairment. The venom induced consumption coagulopathy (VICC) following Russell's viper bite can result in a syndrome consistent with thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), manifesting with thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) and acute kidney injury (AKI). TMA is rarely reported as a complication of Russell's viper envenoming. Our patient, a farmer, was bitten by Russell's viper and was brought to a nearby hospital within an hour. He was administered anti-snake venom (ASV) and supportive therapy. As his renal function declined, he was transferred to our hospital. He developed thrombocytopenia, and MAHA as evidenced by progressive anemia, schistocytes on peripheral smear, increased levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and AKI unresponsive to fluid management and diuretic administration. He was managed with sustained low-efficiency dialysis (SLED) and therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). After three cycles of TPE and seven cycles of SLED over the next three weeks, the patient recovered completely and has been asymptomatic for more than sixmonths during follow up. The case is reported for rarity of TMA in the Russell's viper envenomation, and the role of TPE in such cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hypertriglyceridemia is a common cause of acute pancreatitis (AP). This literature review compared the effectiveness and adverse events of insulin therapy, with or without heparin, and plasmapheresis, in reducing triglyceride levels in patients with hypertriglyceridemia-induced AP. Methods Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, evidence syntheses, editorials, commentaries, protocols, abstracts, theses and preprints were excluded. Review Manager was used to conduct the meta-analysis. The literature search yielded 2765 articles, but only 5 were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis and the total number of participants in the review was 269. Results From this study's analysis, insulin ± heparin was more successful in reducing triglyceride levels than plasmapheresis (standardized mean difference -0.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.99 to 0.25; P=0.25). Insulin ± heparin therapy had a lower mortality rate than plasmapheresis (risk ratio [RR] 0.70, 95%CI 0.25-1.95). Hypotension, hypoglycemia, and acute renal failure were less common in the plasmapheresis therapy group than in insulin ± heparin therapy (RR 1.13, 95%CI 0.46-2.81, RR 3.90, 95%CI 0.45-33.78, and RR 0.48, 95%CI 0.02-13.98 for hypotension, hypoglycemia, and acute renal failure, respectively). Conclusions This study found no significant difference in mortality between insulin ± heparin therapy and plasmapheresis used for the reduction in triglyceride levels. It is notable that no substantial differences were observed in the most common side-effects encountered during these therapies, thus indicating non-inferiority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of bortezomib which is a proteasome inhibitor has been demonstrated to be efficacious in small number of patients as a desensitization strategy in heart transplant. We reviewed our single center's experience using Bortezomib along with plasmapheresis as desensitization therapy for highly sensitized patients to assess pre‐ and post‐transplant outcomes. Method: We assessed 43 highly sensitized patients awaiting HTx (defined as cPRA > 50%) between 2010 and 2021 who underwent desensitization therapy with bortezomib. Only those patients who subsequently underwent HTx were included in this study. Enrolled patients received up to four doses of bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2) over 2 weeks in conjunction with plasmapheresis. The efficacy of PP/BTZ was assessed by comparing the calculated panel reactive antibodies to HLA class I or class II antigens. Post‐transplant outcomes including overall survival and incidence of rejection were compared to those of non‐sensitized patients (PRA < 10%, n = 649) from the same center. Results: The average cPRA prior to PP/BTZ was 94.5%. Post‐PP/BTZ there was no statistically significant decline in mean cPRA, class I cPRA, or class II cPRA, though the average percentage decrease in class I cPRA (8.7 ± 17.0%) was higher than the change in class II cPRA (4.4 ± 13.3%). Resulted were also replicated with C1q‐binding antibodies showing more effect on I class compared to class II (15.0 ± 37.4% vs. 6.8 ± 33.6%) as well as with 1:8 dilutional assay (14.0 ± 23.0% vs. 9.1 ± 34.9%). Additionally, PP/BTZ treated patients and the control group of non‐sensitized patients had similar overall 1 year survival (95.4 vs. 92.5%) but patients with PP/BTZ had increased incidence of AMR (79.1% vs. 97.1%, p = <.001), any treated rejection (62.8% vs. 86.7%, p = <.001) and de novo DSA development (81.4% vs. 92.5%, p =.007). Major side effects of PP/BTZ included thrombocytopenia (42%), infection requiring antibiotics (28%), and neuropathy (12%). Conclusion: The use of bortezomib in highly sensitized patients does not significantly lower circulating antibodies prior to heart transplantation. However, its use may improve the chances of obtaining an immuno‐compatible donor heart and contribute to acceptable post‐transplant outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Therapeutic apheresis (TA) is commonly used for cryoglobulinemic vasculitis (CV) patients, but its efficacy remains uncertain. This systematic review aimed to assess the efficacy of different TA modalities, such as plasma exchange (PE), plasmapheresis (PP), and cryofiltration (CF), in treating CV patients with renal involvement. Methods: Literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Databases was conducted up to December 2022. Studies that reported the outcomes of TA in adult CV patients with renal involvement were assessed. The protocol for this systematic review has been registered with PROSPERO (No. CRD42023417727). The quality of each study was evaluated by the investigators using the validated methodological index for non-randomized studies (minors) quality score. Results: 154 patients who encountered 170 episodes of serious events necessitating TA were evaluated across 76 studies. Among them, 51% were males, with a mean age ranging from 49 to 58 years. The CV types included 15 type I, 97 type II, and 13 type III, while the remaining patients exhibited mixed (n = 17) or undetermined CV types (n = 12). Among the treatment modalities, PE, PP, and CF were performed in 85 (56%), 52 (34%), and 17 patients (11%), respectively, with no identical protocol for TA treatment. The overall response rate for TA was 78%, with response rates of 84%, 77%, and 75% observed in type I, II, and III patients respectively. Most patients received steroids, immunosuppressants, and treatment targeting the underlying causative disease. The overall long-term renal outcome rate was 77%, with type I, II, and III patients experiencing response rates of 89%, 76%, and 90%, respectively. The renal outcomes in patients receiving PE, PP, and CF were comparable, with rates of 78%, 76%, and 81%, respectively. Conclusions: This study presents compelling evidence that combination of TA with other treatments, especially immunosuppressive therapy, is a successful strategy for effectively managing severe renal involvement in CV patients. Among the TA modalities studied, including PE, PP, and CF, all demonstrated efficacy, with PE being the most frequently employed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion remains a major treatment for sickle cell disease (SCD). Patients with SCD have a high prevalence of renal impairment and cardiorespiratory disease, conferring risk of transfusion‐associated circulatory overload (TACO). Study Design and Methods: We describe an approach, titled euvolemic automated transfusion (EAT), to transfuse SCD patients with severe anemia who are at risk of TACO. In EAT, plasmapheresis is performed using donor RBCs, rather than albumin or plasma, as replacement fluid. Euvolemia is maintained. A retrospective analysis was conducted of patients with SCD who underwent EAT at our institution over a 10‐year period, to evaluate the efficacy and safety of EAT. Results: Eleven SCD patients underwent 109 EAT procedures (1–59 procedures per patient). The median age was 42 years (IQR = [30–49]) and 82% (n = 9) were female. Most (82%; n = 9) patients had severe chronic kidney disease and 55% (n = 6) had heart failure. One (9%) patient had a history of life‐threatening TACO. Mean pre‐ and post‐procedure Hct values were 19.8% (SD ± 1.6%) and 29.1% (SD ± 1.4%), respectively. The average Hct increment was 3.2% per RBC unit. Only two EAT‐related complications were recorded during the 109 procedures: central line‐associated infection and citrate toxicity (muscle cramping). EAT used an average of two RBC units less than that projected for standard automated RBC exchange. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that EAT is safe and effective to treat patients with SCD and severe anemia, who are at risk for TACO. EAT requires fewer RBC units compared to automated RBC exchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Guillain-Barre syndrome is an immune mediated poly-radiculo-neuropathy with a variable clinical presentation and prognosis. Plasma exchange and Intravenous immunoglobulin are treatment options with proven efficacy by various clinical trials. But these trials demonstrate improvement in a classical and moderate to severe GBS. In clinical setting, problem may occur in treatment of those patients who present with mild symptoms & signs, clinical variants of GBS, or when the duration of weakness is > 2 weeks from onset of symptoms. Objective: To determine the frequency of mild GBS, its clinical characteristics & to compare clinical outcome of patients treated with or without plasmapheresis. Methods: Prospective, Quasi experimental study was done in Neurology, MHL from June, 2020 to June, 2022. Diagnosis of mild GBS was made on basis of patient ability to walk without support/GBS disability score is = 2. Outcome in these patients was assessed by using MRC sum score at presentation one and 3month post treatment. Results: Patients with diagnosis of GBS (n=154) were admitted and treated during 2years.out of these patients, 22(14.28%) were diagnosed as mild GBS, 18 males and 4 females. MRC Sum score at presentation 18.5, at 1-month 19.7 and at 3 month it was 19.5 on average. MRC sum score improvement noted in patients treated with plasma-pheresis at one and three months with p value less than 0.01. There was no difference in recovery with increased number of sessions of plasma-pheresis 3 versus 5 sessions at one month and 3months with p value 0.18 &0.32 respectively. Conclusion: Mild GBS is not uncommon, remained under-reported in clinical scenario. Plasma-pheresis seems to have a beneficial role in mild form of GBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To report a pediatric case of drug-induced thrombotic microangiopathy caused by cocaine Case description: We report a nine-month-old patient who developed thrombotic microangiopathies after extreme cocaine intoxication, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome with hemodynamic dysfunction, anuric renal failure, liver failure, encephalopathy, and myocardial injury, corresponding phenotypically to thrombocytopenia-associated multiple organ failure. The patient received continuous venous hemofiltration and therapeutic plasma exchange, recovering satisfactorily. She was discharged after 30 days of hospitalization under the guidance of the childcare service, and was healthy after one year of follow-up. Toxicological samples confirmed high levels of cocaine and derivatives in blood, urine and hair. Comments: To our knowledge, this is the first reported pediatric case. There are particularities of cocaine intoxication pathophysiology that can trigger thrombotic microangiopathies because of vasoconstriction, direct endothelial injury, platelet activation, and increasing von Willebrand factor and fibrinogen levels. All of which results in a prothrombotic state, inflammatory dysregulation, and microvascular thrombi. The increasing use of cocaine, especially among young adults, puts children at high risk of toxicity, either by passive unintentional exposure, or abuse due to the increased availability in homes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During platelet and plasmapheresis, a significant amount of blood is lost through the initial test blood collection and the residual blood that remains in the disposable plastic sets. To address this issue, we examined ferritin levels in 523 blood donors who had not donated whole blood within the previous year. We compared ferritin levels between two groups: those who used only machines with low residual blood (group C) and those with high residual blood (group T). The study revealed that ferritin levels were less than 12 ng/mi in 33.3% of male donors and 61.1% of female donors who donated 13 to 24 times within the previous year. As donation frequency increased among male donors, the mean ferritin level decreased. However, there was no significant difference in ferritin levels between group C and T among those with 12 or fewer annual donations. Our findings suggest that an elevated number of lifetime blood donations also impacted iron deficiency. These findings emphasize the importance of regularly monitoring donors' ferritin levels, iron supplementation, reducing donation frequency, and adopting the saline reinfusion procedure to prevent iron depletion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Waldenstroms macroglobulinemia (WM) or Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma is a rare B cell lymphoproliferative malignancy characterized by serum monoclonal immunoglobulin M (IgM) protein and lymphoplasmacytic infiltration in the bone marrow. Patients usually present in their seventh decade with symptoms related to the infiltration of the marrow or the effects of monoclonal IgM in the blood. Objective: Was to study the clinical characteristics and treatment outcome of patients diagnosed with WM. Materials and methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 26 cases of WM treated at a tertiary cancer centre. Results: WM constituted 0.68% of our nonHodgkin's lymphoma. The median age at presentation was 67 years with a male to female ratio of 2:1. Four patients had lymphadenopathy, six had splenomegaly and four patients had evidence of hyper viscosity. All patients had IgM paraproteinemia, the M band was IgM-kappa in 19 patients and IgM-lambda in seven patients. All patients had a histopathological confirmation. According to IPSS-WM, 12 patients each were in the intermediate and high risk group and 2 in the low risk group. Among the 26 patients, 20 patients received upfront treatment and four patients were kept under observation. The indications for treatment were cytopenia in ten patients, constitutional symptoms in five, hyper viscosity in four and symptomatic lymphadenopathy in one patient. Sixteen patients received rituximab-based chemotherapy. Four patients with features with hyper viscosity underwent plasmapheresis. The three year progression free survival and overall survival were 69.4% and 78 % respectively. Conclusions: WM is a low grade B cell lymphoproliferative disorder having an indolent course and do not require treatment for prolonged period. Diagnosis is challenging due to lack of distinct diagnostic features. Rituximab containing regimens are the standard of care. Newer targeted treatment options may improve the outcome of this incurable disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) is a serious disorder characterized by the sudden onset of inflammation in the brain, which may lead to life-threatening clinical situations. This syndrome encompasses a range of neurological disorders, including, but not limited to, viral and bacterial infections, toxins, and metabolic causes. It includes a wide array of spectrum of diseases, and diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and a wide range of investigations. Treatment is usually symptomatic, and in some instances, definitive treatment is available. Long-term sequelae of AES can include cognitive deficits, behavioral changes, motor impairments, and epilepsy. Rehabilitation and supportive care are often necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collapsing glomerulopathy is a rare and serious disease that is characterized by a rapid deterioration of kidney function and heavy proteinuria. This disease is a variant of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The disease is more serious than other types of FSGS, with high risks of renal failure and poor prognosis. Collapsing glomerulopathy is often resistant to immunosuppressive therapy and can rapidly result in renal failure, making diagnosing and managing this disease an enormous challenge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wilson's disease (WD) with acute onset poses a diagnostic challenge because it is clinically indistinguishable from other acute liver diseases. In addition, serum ceruloplasmin and urinary copper excretion, the first-line diagnostic tools for WD, can show false positive results in the case of acute liver failure, and the diagnostic role of genetic analysis is limited by the time required to perform it. In the case of fulminant onset, there is a clear indication of liver transplantation. "New Wilson Index" is frequently used to discriminate between patients who need liver transplantation versus those who can be successfully managed by medical treatment, but its reliability remains controversial. Timely referral of patients with acute liver failure due to WD may be a key factor in improving patient survival. Although liver transplant very often represents the only chance for such patients, maximum effort should be made to promote survival with a native liver. The management of these aspects of WD is still a matter of debate and will be the subject of this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a very rare immune mediated disorder which is associated with demyelination of peripheral nervous system and progressive muscle weakness that occurs mostly in previously healthy individuals. It usually presents with ascending paralysis and is severe enough to warrant hospital admission for its management. Methodology: The current study is a retrospective, observational study was conducted for the assessment of clinical profile data and treatment pattern of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Result: According to our data, we observe that treatment like IVIG, Plasmapheresis, Nutrition therapy; Analgesic etc. are the common medication prescribed by the physicians as per patient condition. AIDP is the most common sub-type of GBS was observed in patients, with about 60% AIDP, 20%AMAN, 20% MFS patients were observed. The mostly observed symptoms in the GBS are weakness of limbs, bifacial weakness, slurring of speech and fever. As per our data about 72% of males and 28% of females were diagnosed with GBS. Conclusion: Both IVIG and Plasmapheresis treatment showed significant improvement within our study setting IVIG was the preferred treatment option due to low side effect profile and ease of administration however cost of treatment is higher compared to Plasmapheresis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose We describe the case of a 22-year-old male who developed thyroid storm necessitating therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). The patient's past medical history was complicated by epilepsy, for which he took lacosamide. Little evidence was available to guide lacosamide dosing during TPE. Because of an exacerbation of the patient's underlying epilepsy in the context of the thyroid storm, we conducted therapeutic medication monitoring of lacosamide concentrations to guide management. Summary We arranged for measurement of the lacosamide concentration immediately before TPE (5.1 μg/mL) and 2.5 hours after the initial measurement (3.4 μg/mL) to determine the amount of lacosamide removed by TPE. Utilizing population pharmacokinetic parameters, we calculated the expected concentration and compared this to the measured concentration. The difference between these values was used to determine the percentage removed via TPE compared to the expected post-TPE concentration. We found that one TPE session removed an additional 20% of serum lacosamide. Conclusion TPE appeared to remove an additional 20% of lacosamide when compared to the expected post-TPE concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Guillain–Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a common differential diagnosis of acute-onset flaccid quadriparesis with or without bulbar involvement. Various illnesses precede GBS, respiratory illness being the most common. Campylobacter jejuni is the single most common organism found associated with GBS. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni positivity in different subtypes of GBS. Methods: Sixty patients of GBS were tested for serological evidence of Campylobacter jejuni and compared with 60 age and sex matched controls. Results: Mean age of cases was 39.58 (± 14.76 years) and that of controls was 35 (± 12.31 years). Preceding illness was present in 38% cases. Respiratory tract illness was present in 9 (15%) cases, while as GI illness was present in 8 (13%) cases. AIDP was the most common variant accounting for 65% of cases, followed by AMAN (18.3%). Among cases, 24 (40%) tested positive for Campylobacter jejuni antibody whereas only 12 (20%) tested positive for antibody among controls. The difference was statistically significant between cases and controls (p value = 0.003). There was no statistically significant difference in antibody positivity and preceding illness among different variants of GBS (p value = 1.0). Conclusion: Campylobacter jejuni infection is a frequent preceding illness in GBS patients, although it may be asymptomatic. There is however no relation between different subtypes of GBS and C. jejuni infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess efficacy of extracorporeal plasma therapy (EPT), including plasmapheresis (PE), immunoadsorption (IA), low-density lipoprotein apheresis (LDL-A), and lymphocytapheresis (LCAP) for adult native kidney patients with primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Databases through August 2022. Studies that reported outcomes of EPT in adult native kidneys with primary FSGS were enrolled. 18 studies with 104 therapy-resistant or refractory primary native FSGS patients were identified. Overall EPT response rate was 56%, with long-term benefit of 46%. Of the 101 non-hemodialysis (HD) patients, 54% achieved remission, with 30% complete remission (CR) and 23% partial remission (PR). Of 31 patients with PE, response rate was 65%; CR and PR rates were 27% and 37% in 30 non-HD patients. Of 61 patients with LDL-A, the response rate was 54%; CR and PR rates were 41% and 3% in 29 non-HD patients. Of 10 patients with IA, response rate was 40%. Of 2 patients with LCAP, 1 achieved CR, and one developed renal failure. All 3 HD patients showed increase in urine output and gradual decrease in urine protein excretion following PE (n = 1) or LDL-A (n = 2). 2 of 3 HD patients ultimately discontinued dialysis. EPT with immunosuppressive therapy showed benefit in some patients with refractory primary FSGS, and PE appeared to have a higher response rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Donor‐specific anti‐HLA antibodies (DSA) are a major cause of engraftment failure in patients receiving haploidentical haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (Haplo‐HSCT). Double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) avoids the unnecessary loss of plasma proteins and increases the efficiency of purification. To investigate the effectiveness of the desensitization protocol including DFPP and rituximab, we conducted a nested case–control study. Thirty‐three patients who had positive DSA were desensitized by the protocol and 99 patients with negative DSA were randomly matched as control. The median DSA mean fluorescence intensity values before and after DFPP treatment were 7505.88 ± 4424.38 versus 2013.29 ± 4067.22 (p < 0.001). All patients in DSA group achieved haematopoietic reconstitution and the median neutrophils and platelets engraftment times were 13 (10–21) and 13 (10–29) days respectively. Although the cumulative incidence of II–IV aGVHD (41.4% vs. 28.1%) and 3‐year moderate to severe cGVHD (16.8% vs. 7.2%) were higher in DSA cohort than in the control, no statistical significance was observed. The 3‐year non‐relapse mortality and the overall survival were 6.39% and 72.0%, respectively, in the DSA cohort, which were comparable to the negative control. In conclusion, DFPP and rituximab could be effectively used for desensitization and overcome the negative effects of DSA in Haplo‐HSCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Systematically measuring pre‐donation haemoglobin (Hb) levels might be overly cautious for apheresis plasma donation, since plasmapheresis entails a small loss of red blood cells. We explored the association between the frequency of apheresis plasma donation and capillary blood Hb levels. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study included donors who gave apheresis plasma at least twice between 24 October 2020 and 23 October 2022 in Québec, Canada. Results were stratified by sex and analysed with linear repeated‐measure mixed models with random intercepts. Results: In total, 9535 men (mean age = 46.7 years) and 9409 women (mean age = 41.1 years) made ≥2, but no more than 16 apheresis plasma donations. Over an average of 9.2 months of observation, men maintained Hb levels well above the Hb deferral threshold, and their Hb levels decreased by only 0.17 g/dL between the 1st and 15th donation return (p < 0.0001). Over an average of 9.0 months of observation, women also maintained adequate Hb levels, and their Hb levels decreased by 0.08 g/dL between the 1st and 15th donation return. Conclusion: The frequency of apheresis plasma donation was not associated with clinically meaningful changes in Hb levels, neither in men nor in women. This evidence questions the relevance of systematically monitoring Hb for apheresis plasma donation, at least for donation frequencies of ≤7–8 times per year. However, an adverse impact of plasmapheresis on Hb levels cannot be ruled out for individuals donating more frequently or for longer than ~9 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia, characterized by the abnormal accumulation of protein aggregates in the brain, known as neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques. It is believed that an imbalance between cerebral and peripheral pools of Aβ may play a relevant role in the deposition of Aβ aggregates. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of the removal of Aβ from blood plasma on the accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain. We performed monthly plasma exchange with a 5% mouse albumin solution in the APP/PS1 mouse model from 3 to 7 months old. At the endpoint, total Aβ levels were measured in the plasma, and soluble and insoluble brain fractions were analyzed using ELISA. Brains were also analyzed histologically for amyloid plaque burden, plaque size distributions, and gliosis. Our results showed a reduction in the levels of Aβ in the plasma and insoluble brain fractions. Interestingly, histological analysis showed a reduction in thioflavin-S (ThS) and amyloid immunoreactivity in the cortex and hippocampus, accompanied by a change in the size distribution of amyloid plaques, and a reduction in Iba1-positive cells. Our results provide preclinical evidence supporting the relevance of targeting Aβ in the periphery and reinforcing the potential use of plasma exchange as an alternative non-pharmacological strategy for slowing down AD pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An overdose of colchicine can be lethal due to its narrow therapeutic index. We aimed to describe the successful management of a large intentional overdose with plasmapheresis therapy. A 32-year-old female presented to the Emergency Department with nausea, vomiting, and dizziness eight hours after intentionally ingesting 0.9 mg/kg colchicine in tablet form. She was treated with plasmapheresis and supportive therapy. The only abnormality in four days of observation was one-day transient lymphopenia (0.82 x 109/L). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the growing utilization of Plasma-Derived Medicinal Products (PDMPs) and the importance of ensuring the safety of plasma donors. It critiques two studies that concluded that repeated plasmapheresis (plasma donation) is safe for donors, pointing out methodological shortcomings and selection biases in the studies. The authors argue that more robust evidence, such as randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and real-world data analysis, is needed to determine the long-term impact of repeated plasmapheresis on donor health. They emphasize the need for trustworthy evidence syntheses and transparent criteria for evaluating the quality of evidence. Until more conclusive evidence is available, blood establishments will continue to prioritize donor safety. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Source plasma collections are needed to satisfy the growing demand for plasma‐derived medicinal products. The US plasma collection target volume has been guided by a standard weight‐based FDA‐issued nomogram (STAN) since 1992. In this research, large‐scale US‐based real‐world data (RWD) were analyzed to confirm the safety and volume gains of a newly introduced personalized nomogram (PERS) that was previously studied in a premarket randomized controlled environment. Study Design and Methods: A non‐inferiority (NI) analysis was conducted to compare the novel nomogram's significant hypotensive adverse event (AE) incidence rate with large historical standard nomogram AE datasets. Additionally, the average target volumes and donor return rates were compared for collections following PERS and STAN. Results: A total of 4,816,784 donations (PERS) by 414,957 donors resulted in a rate of 0.0998% (95% CI [0.0970, 0.1027]) significant hypotensive AEs. NI analysis suggested strong non‐inferiority of the new technology (Δ = −0.0082%, 95% CI [−0.0113, −0.0050], prespecified NI margin = 0.1080). Average plasma collection target volumes increased by 66.39 mL (8.49%; p <.0001). Consecutive weekly donor return rates were consistent between the two nomograms (PERS: 73.6%, 95% CI [69.6%–76.7%]; STAN: 74.1%, 95% CI [66.1%–77.2%]). Discussion: This analysis confirms in a large‐scale real‐world dataset the key safety parameter and collection benefit of a novel, technology‐enabled nomogram. The nomogram may help meet the growing demand for plasma‐derived therapies by providing approximately 8.5% more plasma per donation on average while maintaining donor safety and return rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute liver failure is a sudden and rapidly developing acute liver injury, with impaired metabolic-synthetic function of the liver, with or without encephalopathy that causes multi organ failure in a healthy person. Acute liver failure can develop due to many different reasons. In this report, we presented a child patient who received chemotherapy with the diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and developed acute liver failure after Varicella-Zoster Virus infection. In this patient, liver transplantation could not be performed due to active viral infection, and she improved after acyclovir and supportive care with plasmapheresis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the only immunosuppressed child patient in the literature who improved from acute liver failure after Varicella-Zoster Virus infection without liver transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]