Therapeutic Plasma Exchange using Continuous Flow Cell Separator Machine in a Neuromyelitis Optica Patient Outcome and Analysis

Abstract

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory central nervous system syndrome, associated with serum aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G antibodies. Autoantibodies against aquaporin-4 (AQP4-IgG), the principal water channel on astrocyte foot processes at the blood brain barrier, are pathogenic in NMO. Acute attacks are managed by high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone,if symptoms fail to resolve, plasma exchange is considered. Here , we present a case of NMO spectrum disorder in a 20 year old lady, failed to pharmacotherapy , was managed by plasma exchange using Spectra Optia Cell Separator machine . Detailed plasma exchange protocol, disease progression and outcome was analysed in this study.