Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis)
Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) is a procedure done to remove part of a person's blood that may be the cause of a disease. In plasma exchange, whole blood is withdrawn and the liquid portion (plasma) is separated from the red and white blood cells and replaced with a saline and albumin (protein) solution.
Plasma exchange requires access to a large vein. The procedure may be more dangerous if it is performed on older adults or people with heart disease.
Current as of: September 8, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Colin Chalk MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology