From the Research
Plasmapheresis has not been shown to be an effective treatment for psychiatric problems, including schizophrenia, according to the most recent and highest quality study available 1. The study, published in 2020, found that plasmapheresis was ineffective in treating schizophrenia, with only one trial addressing its use in this context. Some key points to consider when evaluating the use of plasmapheresis for psychiatric conditions include:
- The potential risks associated with the procedure, such as hypotension, bleeding, infection, and electrolyte disturbances
- The need for thorough neurological and immunological workup before considering plasmapheresis
- The importance of performing the procedure at centers experienced with the management of psychiatric disorders with potential autoimmune etiology
- The limited evidence supporting the use of plasmapheresis for psychiatric conditions, with most studies focusing on its use in neurological disorders such as autoimmune encephalitis 2 It is essential to prioritize the patient's safety and well-being when considering plasmapheresis as a treatment option, and to carefully weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks. In general, plasmapheresis is not considered a standard treatment for primary psychiatric disorders, and its use should be approached with caution and careful consideration of the available evidence.