An international survey of paediatric apheresis practice

摘要: Introduction Paediatric apheresis (PA) has distinct characteristics compared to adult and requires specialized knowledge experience perform safely, particularly in low-weight patients. As evidence-based medicine advances the field of therapeutic apheresis, increased attention must be paid paediatric patients with conditions for which is indicated. Methods An electronic survey >5000 potential participants throughout world was conducted ascertain scope current state practice. Results The elicited 159 responses from 12 countries; 107 provided sufficient information analysis. Participants performed an average 176 PA procedures/year (range 1–2000). The types procedures were plasma exchange (TPE, 92% centres), red cell (RCE, 86%), leucocyte depletion (LD, 87%) peripheral blood hematopoietic progenitor collection (HPC, 72%). More than 65% centres had treated children older 5 years PA. Many also on younger children; 40% have <12 months age; 61% 1–5 years old. About 36% reported that they would regardless patient weight; 18% used a 5 kg threshold, 11% 5–10 kg 17% 10 kg as their weight threshold. Conclusion This report largest single performing results provide about diversity identify areas where considerable variability practice exists. Further exploration these differences could establish best practices through international research collaboration.