Photopheresis

Photopheresis is a type of apheresis and photodynamic therapy in which blood is treated with a photosensitizing agent and subsequently irradiated with specific wavelengths of light to treat a variety of disorders.

History

The technique was first introduced by Richard L. Edelson of Yale University in 1987 for the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). Since then, it has been used to treat a variety of other conditions.

Procedure

In photopheresis, the patient's blood is first drawn and separated into its components. The white blood cells are then mixed with a photosensitizing agent, usually methoxsalen, and exposed to ultraviolet A (UVA) light. The treated cells are then returned to the patient. The entire process takes about two to three hours and is usually performed on an outpatient basis.

Uses

Photopheresis has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
• Graft-versus-host disease
• Systemic sclerosis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Crohn's disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Type 1 diabetes

Side Effects

Possible side effects of photopheresis include:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Low blood pressure

See Also

• Apheresis
• Photodynamic therapy
• Methoxsalen