Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease with autoantibodies targeting acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. Total plasma exchange can provide clinical improvement by removing the autoantibodies.
Patient selection: myasthenia gravis
Total plasma exchange is used to remove autoantibodies. This is performed in conjunction with rituximab or other immunosuppression, which reduces production of the autoantibody. Plasma exchange alone provides only temporary relief.
Usual indications:
(1) severe myasthenia or myasthenic crisis
(2) prior to thymectomy
Target volume: 1.5 times total plasma volume
Replacement fluid: albumin
Frequency: daily or every other day
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
