Transfus Apher Sci 2013 Feb 13

Resistant oral mucosal lesions in pemphigus vulgaris responsive to double filtration plasmapheresis: First case report from Turkey.

Savk E, Uslu M, Yavaşoğlu I, Kadıköylü G, Sendur N, Karaman G.
Adnan Menderes University, Department of Dermatology, Turkey. Electronic address: esavk@adu.edu.tr.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Adjuvant therapeutic methods are employed when pemphigus vulgaris (PV) fails to be controlled by conventional corticosteroid treatment. Objective: The efficacy of double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) was investigated in a PV patient with severe, refractory mucosal disease.

METHODS:

A total of 3 DFPP cycles, each cycle consisting of 5 double filtration sessions conducted on alternate days was completed.

RESULTS:

DFPP provided immediate clinical relief of symptoms as well as a significant decrease in anti-desmoglein antibody levels and allowed for a much lower corticosteroid dose.

CONCLUSION:

DFPP was an effective and safe adjuvant therapy in our patient with PV and it offers a valid treatment option in PV patients with recalcitrant disease.