What Diseases Can Be Treated With Apheresis?

Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia

Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM) is a type of cancer classified as a form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and originates in the B cells. The WM cells make macroglobulin, which is a type of antibody. The antibody is a protein referred to as a monoclonal protein. The accumulation of this protein is what causes the symptoms of Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, such as excess bleeding, nervous system issues, and vision problems. Apheresis is a possible treatment option. As the protein builds, the blood thickens. To prevent this, this procedure helps reduce the antibody levels quickly. The machine will pull the protein from the blood cells and discard it. Plasma is mixed with a salt solution and transfused back into the patient. This does not directly treat this cancer, but it is imperative for controlling the antibodies associated with this condition.

Get to know another type of cancer apheresis can help treat.