Indications for Plasma Exchange and Other Immunosuppressive Theraphy at the Onset of IDDM

Abstract

Abstract>Several facts indicate that immunological mechanisms are involved in the etiology of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. As there usually is an important residual beta cell function at the time of diagnosis, the destructive process should be stopped. Different kinds of immunosuppressive therapy have been tried. A review is made concluding that especially Cyclosporin A‐treatment has given promising preliminary short‐term results. However, the side effects cannot be neglected and the follow‐up is short. It is therefore recommended that the results of ongoing studies are reported before new studies are started. Plasmapheresis has also given some positive results. Both the removal of plasma from the patients and supply of plasma from healthy donors may contribute to the effect. Further studies are needed before any recommendations for clinical use can be given.