Preliminary results of double filtration plasmapheresis in patients with intermediate stage of dry AMD

    Abstract

    Preliminary results of double filtration plasmapheresis in patients with intermediate stage of dry AMD

    F.A. Sizonenko, A.A. Volozhev

    Medical Military Academy named after S.M. Kirov, Ministry of Defence of Russian Federation

    The purpose and objectives of the study. To study the indicators of regional hemodynamics, as well as the dynamics of structural and functional parameters of the macular zone in patients with a dry form of age­related macular degeneration before and after the use of double filtration plasmapheresis.

    Material and methods. The study included 53 patients (71 eyes) with intermediate stage AMD. The patients underwent double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) on an OctoNova device using a Plasmaflo plasma filter and a Cascadeflo EC40 fractionator. The course included 4 procedures with a frequency of 1 time per week. In the period before the DFPP course, after the DFPP course (1 month after the start of followup), after 6 and 12 months, a comprehensive ophthalmological examination and ultrasound examination were performed to assess the blood flow rate in the posterior short ciliary arteries. Patients in the main group underwent plasma and blood viscosity testing before and after plasmapheresis as an indicator of treatment efficacy. For a reliable interpretation of the results of the study, the age norm was set: 20 patients (20 eyes), comparable in gender and age.

    Results. The study revealed positive dynamics of structural and functional parameters of the macular retina and improvement of microcirculation parameters against the background of the use of double filtration plasmapheresis of patients with dry AMD. At the same time, a statistically significant difference begins at 1 month and persists for 12 months of followup, which indicates stabilization of the pathological process.

    Conclusion. Double filtration plasmapheresis has a positive effect on the course of dry AMD, but the effect may weaken over time. However, there is a possibility of regular repetition of the course.

    Keywords: treatment of the dry AMD, regional hemodynamics, druses, double filtration plasmapheresis