Selective Removal of Pathogenetic Macromolecules Directly from Whole Blood by Double Filtration Technique

Abstract

Double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) is a technique devised in an attempt to selectively remove pathogenetic macromolecules such as antibodies, immune complexes or viscosity-increasing substances directly from blood. In order to realize the differential filtration principle, two filters, one for separation of plasma and another for fractionation of plasma components, are installed in an extracorporeal circulation line. Selective separation of the plasma components is dependent on the filtration property of the two filters. Clinical experiences evidence the usefulness of this technique in regard to conservation of human blood products for supplementation.