Erythrocytapheresis

Erythrocytapheresis (pronounced: eh-rith-ro-cy-ta-feh-re-sis) is a medical procedure that involves the removal of red blood cells from the body. This procedure is often used in the treatment of diseases such as polycythemia vera, sickle cell disease, and thalassemia.

Etymology

The term "Erythrocytapheresis" is derived from three Greek words: "erythros" meaning red, "kytos" meaning hollow vessel (a cell), and "aphairesis" meaning removal.

Procedure

Erythrocytapheresis is performed using a machine that separates the blood into its different components. The red blood cells are removed and the remaining components, including plasma, white blood cells, and platelets, are returned to the body. This procedure is typically performed in a hospital or clinic setting.

Indications

Erythrocytapheresis is used to treat conditions that cause an overproduction of red blood cells, or conditions where the red blood cells are abnormal and cause complications. These conditions include polycythemia vera, a condition where the body produces too many red blood cells, sickle cell disease, a genetic disorder that causes red blood cells to become misshapen and break down, and thalassemia, a genetic disorder that results in the production of abnormal hemoglobin.

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with erythrocytapheresis. These may include reactions to the anticoagulant used during the procedure, low blood calcium levels, and infection. It is important for patients to discuss these risks with their healthcare provider before undergoing erythrocytapheresis.

Related Terms

Apheresis: The general term for procedures that involve the removal of a specific component of the blood.
Leukapheresis: A procedure that involves the removal of white blood cells from the body.
Plasmapheresis: A procedure that involves the removal of plasma from the body.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Erythrocytapheresis
Wikipedia's article - Erythrocytapheresis

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Erythrocytapheresis