In these patients, the lymphocyte count was reduced (<1.0 x10/L). The ARDS patients demonstrated elevated levels of C reactive protein (CRP) >60 mg/L, interleukin-6 (IL-6) >40 pg/mL, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) >40 m/s or ferritin >500 ng/mL. The study population comprised 16 to 65-year-old hospitalized COVID-19 patients diagnosed between April 2020 to August 2020 on the basis of computed tomography (CT) radiological features established by the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) and/or quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). In the present study, the researchers assessed the efficacy of PLEX therapy in improving survival in critical COVID-19 and associated cytokine storm syndrome patients. To this end, PLEX helps restore host immune responses against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections. This exchange removes the pro-inflammatory molecules effectively, thereby reducing COVID-19-associated hyper-inflammation. PLEX therapy involves eliminating sizeable plasma volumes (PV) and replacing them with fluids such as albumin and fresh frozen plasma (FFP). Both these conditions lead to significant COVID-19-associated mortality. These disorders develop as a result of increased levels of pro-inflammatory mediators that damage the pulmonary alveolar endothelium. The adverse outcomes of COVID-19 include cytokine storm syndrome and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Background Study: Therapeutic Plasma Exchange: Impact on Survival in Patients With Covid-19.

In a recent study posted to the Research Square* preprint server and under consideration at Scientific Reports, researchers evaluated the survival benefit conferred by plasma exchange therapy (PLEX) in patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and cytokine-storm syndrome. By Pooja Toshniwal Paharia Reviewed by Danielle Ellis, B.Sc.

Plex treatment