Publication:

Risk of bleeding after plasmapheresis!

Background Plasmapheresis is a growing up method used for treatment of many diseases. it is considered as first line therapy for different diseases. During this therapeutic modalities there is an undesirable l removal of coagulation proteins particularly fibrinogen. Aim The aim of the present study was to assess the presence or absence of bleeding risk following therapeutic plasmapheresis. This was done by assessment of fibrinogen level pre and post plasmpharesis in different indication including the renal and non-renal disorders.

Methods The present case control study was conducted on 40 persons from El-Demerdash Hospital in Ain Shams University from the period of May 2019 till November 2019. The study was approved by the hospital’s research ethics board. The 40 patients were divided into 2 groups according to presence or absence of renal disoredes as renal and non-renal indication for plasmapheresis, Fibrinogen level, aPTT, INR were estimated pre and post session of plasmapheresis. Also, all patients were observed during plasmapheresis session and for 72 hours later for clinical evidence of bleeding tendency.

Results Fibrinogen levels and aPTT were reduced significantly following plasmapharesis but without increased risk of bleeding.

Conclusions Fibrinogen level should be assessed in patients undergoing plasmapheresis especially those indicated for invasive maneuvers or surgery following plasmapheresis.