Erythracytapheresis can be used as an alternative to phlebotomy or exchange transfusion in certain red blood cell disorders.
Erythracytapheresis can:
(1) remove excess iron in iron overload
(2) remove excessive red cells
(3) remove defective red blood cells
(4) reduce red blood cell-associated hyperviscosity
Conditions where erythrocytapheresis may be used:
(1) sickle cell anemia
(2) hemochromatosis
(3) severe falciparum malaria
(4) polycythemia
(5) severe hemolytic anemia
The patient's own plasma can be reinfused in a pure red blood cell disorder. This can help to reduce protein loss and exposure to blood products.
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Specialty: Clinical Laboratory, Hematology Oncology
