Technical basis for immunoadsorption

Abstract

Summary Immunoadsorption is a new extracorporeal treatment for immunologicaly‐mediated diseases. This review deals with the primary plasma separation for immunoadsorption, the various immunoadsorbers and the technique of immunoadsorption itself. Primary plasma separation can be performed either by plasma membrane filtration or by centrifugation depending on the quantity of processed plasma. Currently, there are non‐selective, semi‐selective and highly selective adsorbers commercially available. Adsorbers can be subdivided into single‐use and reusable devices. The choice of the adsorber is dependent on the clinical situation of the patient. An adapted anticoagulant regimen must be used to avoid complications in the patient and to obtain optimal adsorber performance. Thus, immunoadsorption is an effective and safe extracorporal treatment in severely ill patients suffering from autoimmune diseases.