Hamid Ebadi1, David Barth, Vera Bril. 1. Division of Neurology, University Health Network, University of Toronto, 5EC-309, 200 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C4, Canada.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION:Plasma exchange (PLEX) is effective in myasthenia gravis (MG), but there are concerns about its safety. METHODS: We collected data prospectively from 42 patients randomized toPLEX treatment in a comparison study with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). Detailed information on the PLEX treatment methodology and adverse events are reported. RESULTS:Forty of 42 patients completed PLEX. Ninety percent were treated in an outpatient setting. Fifty-five percent had no complications, and 45% had mild-moderate reactions that did not require stopping treatment; the majority were citrate reactions and peripheral vascular issues that were easily treated. Fifty-seven percent of patients responded to treatment, and 83% completed PLEX via peripheral venous access. Two patients had severe adverse events: 1 related and 1 unrelated to PLEX. Comorbid disease and age did not predict reactions. CONCLUSION:PLEX is safe, effective, and well tolerated in patients with MG. Our results do not raise concerns about the safety of PLEX in patients with moderate-severe MG.
RCT Entities:
INTRODUCTION: Plasma exchange (PLEX) is effective in myasthenia gravis (MG), but there are concerns about its safety. METHODS: We collected data prospectively from 42 patients randomized to PLEX treatment in a comparison study with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). Detailed information on the PLEX treatment methodology and adverse events are reported. RESULTS: Forty of 42 patients completed PLEX. Ninety percent were treated in an outpatient setting. Fifty-five percent had no complications, and 45% had mild-moderate reactions that did not require stopping treatment; the majority were citrate reactions and peripheral vascular issues that were easily treated. Fifty-seven percent of patients responded to treatment, and 83% completed PLEX via peripheral venous access. Two patients had severe adverse events: 1 related and 1 unrelated to PLEX. Comorbid disease and age did not predict reactions. CONCLUSION: PLEX is safe, effective, and well tolerated in patients with MG. Our results do not raise concerns about the safety of PLEX in patients with moderate-severe MG.
Authors: Andreas Totzeck; Michael Jahn; Benjamin Stolte; Andreas Thimm; Christoph Kleinschnitz; Tim Hagenacker Journal: J Clin Med Date: 2022-07-28 Impact factor: 4.964