Photopheresis. Prices, reviews, ratings
General information
The method involves periodic leukapheresis, which is carried out using centrifugation. Irradiation is performed two hours after taking the drug. It is used as immunotherapy, which is successful in 64% of cases.
If the methodology is recommended for dermatological purposes, it is worth remembering that the hands and feet are not amenable to phototherapy. However, all rashes on the neck, face, shoulders and trunk, thighs and shins can be cured.
Procedure
Preparation
Before starting treatment, the patient's medical history is studied, biochemical parameters of the liver, creatinine, and antinuclear antibodies are indicated. Then an ophthalmological referral is issued. It should be taken into account that the photomethod does not provide a complete recovery. It only prevents the progression of the disease.
Photopheresis procedure
The method is based on special drugs that are activated by radiation. This helps to selectively destroy cancer cells. In essence, this is a two-stage session, in which:
- first, photosensitizing agents are used systemically;
- then, irradiation is carried out at the desired wavelength.
Second-degree porphyrins are also often relevant. When interacting with red light and other sensitizers (phthalocyanines, chlorines, purpurines), they give a better effect.
The following intervention methods are distinguished:
- manual, in which blood is taken, centrifuged and irradiated, and then injected into the patient;
- automated, when venous blood enters a special device. It divides it into fractions, illuminates it and returns it to the general bloodstream.
In order to achieve the desired therapeutic effect, a course of such sessions is necessary, since only a small part of the cells that need nourishment are illuminated.
Rehabilitation period
After photo exposure, skin whitening is possible if pigmentation appears in some areas. This is carried out only on the recommendation of the attending physician. Open areas of the body are hidden under clothing.
Indications
The technique is indicated for people suffering from:
- T-lymphomas of the skin or mycosis fungoides;
- joint pathologies, osteochondrosis, muscle atrophy;
- erythrodermic form (Sezary syndrome), when more than 25% of the dermis surface is affected;
- vulgar pemphigus, psoriatic, rheumatoid and chronic Lyme arthritis;
- systemic scleroderma, lupus erythematosus;
- other autoimmune diseases.
Photopheresis is prescribed as palliative therapy for lung compression or esophageal obstruction by tumor-like formations.
It is less often prescribed for malignant clusters on the epithelium, in the brain or bladder.
Contraindications
The methodology is prohibited in the following cases:
- hemophilia and hematopoiesis disorders;
- diabetes mellitus;
- chronic nephritis;
- hypertension, atherosclerosis;
- tuberculosis, acute respiratory viral infections;
- thyrotoxicosis, facial nerve paralysis.
Complications
In some In such cases, the following consequences occur:
- nausea;
- transient fever;
- gastrointestinal disorders;
- burns (erythema), pain symptoms;
- hyperpigmentation of healthy areas of the coating and a feeling of dryness.
Over time, solar geroderma, keratosis, lentigo, leukoplakia may develop.
Prices and clinics
The technology is performed by a rheumatologist in a clinic or medical center in a hospital setting. You can find out the cost of the service on the portal
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