Therapeutic apheresis in childhood.

The procedures for intensive plasma exchange (IPE) and cytopheresis (CY) require modification for use in children. During the past 11 years we have performed more than 2,000 procedures on children for 11 months to 18 years of age. Heparinization has been our primary method of anticoagulation. Those who were acutely ill anemic or small required a red cell-saline prime. Morbidity was virtually nonexistent. If apheresis is otherwise indicated it should not be withheld because of patient size or concurrent medical problem.