Critical care by cytapheresis.

Abstract

We report our experience of cytapheresis using a nonwoven polyester fiber filter to treat critical states of immune diseases. In 7 critical states of ulcerative colitis (UC), cytapheresis was effective in improving symptoms of UC. Administration of steroids was important in some cases. In 3 cases of renal transplantation, cytapheresis was also effective in controlling rejection. IgA nephropathy of transplanted cases was well controlled. Furthermore, an original disease such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FCGS) in a transplant patient was well treated by extracorporeal immune modulation of the cytapheresis.