Plasmapheresis

Plasmapheresis is a medical treatment often used for patients with certain kidney disorders or for those undergoing an ABO incompatible kidney transplant. In plasmapheresis, a machine separates and removes the plasma—the liquid part of your blood—which contains harmful antibodies or other substances that may be attacking your kidneys or could harm a transplanted kidney.

For some kidney diseases, like those caused by autoimmune conditions (where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues), removing these antibodies can help control the disease, reduce inflammation, and improve kidney function. The plasma that is taken out is usually replaced with a special fluid or donor plasma, and the remaining blood is returned to your body. This process is typically repeated several times over days or weeks, depending on your condition and your doctor’s plan.

If you need a kidney transplant but your blood type is different from your donor (ABO incompatible), your body may have natural antibodies that could reject the new kidney. Plasmapheresis helps by removing these antibodies from your blood before and sometimes after the transplant. This lowers the risk of rejection and increases the chance that your new kidney will work well. Your nephrologist closely monitor you and may use other medications alongside plasmapheresis to keep you safe.