**Title: Doctor Warns of Risks Associated with Plasmapheresis**
Haematologist Sotiris Koumas has issued a warning regarding the use of plasmapheresis outside of established therapeutic settings, emphasizing the potential risks involved in the procedure. His comments come in the wake of public discussions following the death of Greek singer Giorgos Mazonakis, which has raised concerns about the association of plasmapheresis with anti-ageing treatments.
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Koumas highlighted that plasmapheresis is a specific medical procedure primarily used to treat certain medical conditions. It is employed across various medical specialties, including haematology and neurology. The process involves the removal and replacement of a patient’s plasma, which is the liquid component of blood that carries proteins, antibodies, and clotting factors. Koumas noted that in certain medical conditions, harmful substances such as pathological proteins or autoantibodies can accumulate in the plasma, necessitating the use of plasmapheresis.
One example Koumas provided was thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, a serious condition where plasmapheresis can be critical for patient survival. He stressed the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment, stating, “The earlier you make the diagnosis, the earlier you start plasmapheresis – and we’re talking hours – the better the patient’s chances of survival.” He pointed out that successful treatment often requires a collaborative effort from various specialists, including haematologists, nephrologists, intensive care specialists, and surgeons, along with specialized nursing staff.
Koumas cautioned that the procedure carries a range of potential complications, which can vary in severity. He explained that the placement of a catheter for the procedure can lead to injury or bleeding, and if the catheter remains in place for the duration of treatment, it may become infected or develop a clot. During plasmapheresis, a patient’s blood is processed through a specialized machine that separates and removes plasma before returning the blood cells to the patient. Replacement fluid, which can include donor plasma, is administered to compensate for the removed plasma.
While donor plasma can be beneficial, Koumas warned that it is a biological product that may trigger allergic reactions, which could require anything from simple anti-allergy treatment to more significant medical intervention. Additionally, patients might experience drops in blood pressure or electrolyte disturbances, potentially leading to arrhythmias. Koumas reiterated that these risks are manageable in a proper hospital environment, underscoring the necessity for plasmapheresis to be conducted in specialized centers for specific therapeutic indications.
When asked about the use of plasmapheresis in Cyprus for anti-ageing purposes, Koumas stated he was not aware of such practices and referred inquiries to the relevant authorities, who would be better positioned to address the appropriateness of the procedure's applications. He emphasized that all medical interventions should adhere to established protocols and guidelines.
Koumas also addressed the regulatory framework governing facilities offering plasmapheresis in Cyprus, noting that the health ministry is responsible for licensing these centers. He stressed the importance of not only meeting specific requirements for licensure but also ensuring effective oversight of the services provided. “Inspections must also be stepped up. And yes, everyone must be inspected,” he asserted.
In response to inquiries about plasmapheresis for anti-ageing, Koumas highlighted the fundamental medical principle of "first, do no harm." He advised caution against intervening in cases where the medical necessity is unclear, to avoid causing further harm to patients.
Shifting focus to preventive measures, Koumas emphasized that many health issues can be effectively addressed by managing risk factors such as high cholesterol, smoking, and alcohol consumption. He remarked, “Doctors often say that prevention accounts for 50 percent of treatment,” reinforcing the notion that proactive health measures are crucial.
Koumas concluded by noting that therapeutic plasmapheresis conducted in public hospitals in Cyprus has yielded results comparable to international success and failure rates. He acknowledged that, like any medical treatment, there are instances of both success and failure, underscoring the complexity of medical interventions.
As the public continues to engage in discussions about the implications of plasmapheresis, Koumas's insights serve as a reminder of the importance of using such procedures within the appropriate medical context and under expert supervision.