Efficacy of plasmapheresis for the treatment of pure red blood cell aplasia after allogeneic stem cell transplantation

Transfusion. 2015 Dec;55(12):2979-82. doi: 10.1111/trf.13269. Epub 2015 Sep 24.

Abstract

Background: Pure red blood cell aplasia (PRCA) is a complication of ABO major-incompatible stem cell transplantation, likely due to the persistence of memory B lymphocytes of recipient origin, which produce hemagglutinins against ABO antigens on donor RBCs. At present no standard of care is established for this complication.

Case report: We report a case of PRCA after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation, successfully treated with plasma exchange (PEX) after failing erythropoietin administration.

Results: The patient fully recovered from RBC aplasia.

Conclusion: This case suggests a role for PEX in the treatment of PRCA after allogeneic stem cell transplantation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Plasmapheresis*
  • Red-Cell Aplasia, Pure / therapy*
  • Transplantation, Homologous