title: Plasma exchange in systemic lupus erythematosus.
abstract: Eight out of 10 patients studied longitudinally received benefit from plasmapheresis. The patients were used as their own controls, being treated in a steady state as far as was possible. Levels of circulating complexes did not bear a close relationship with clinical results. On the evidence plasma exchange alone does not appear to represent an important part of the long-term management of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus but may well be of value in combination with other therapy.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000936:Antigen-Antibody Complex / Q000032:analysis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010951:Plasma Exchange
chemical_list: D000936:Antigen-Antibody Complex