Which statement describes plasmapheresis used in TTP?

Which statement describes plasmapheresis used in TTP?

• A. It removes plasma and replaces it with fresh frozen plasma.
• B. It increases leukocyte production.
• C. It dissolves clots with enzymes.
• D. It reduces platelet production.

Answer: (A)

In thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, plasmapheresis works by removing the patient’s plasma that contains autoantibodies against ADAMTS13 and ultra-large von Willebrand factor multimers, and replacing it with donor plasma that provides functional ADAMTS13. This exchange lowers the levels of the harmful antibodies and replenishes the enzyme, decreasing ongoing microvascular platelet aggregation and improving hemolysis and platelet count. It is not about increasing leukocyte production, it does not dissolve clots with enzymes, and it does not reduce platelet production; the goal is to remove pathogenic plasma components and supply the missing enzyme.

In thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, plasmapheresis works by removing the patient’s plasma that contains autoantibodies against ADAMTS13 and ultra-large von Willebrand factor multimers, and replacing it with donor plasma that provides functional ADAMTS13. This exchange lowers the levels of the harmful antibodies and replenishes the enzyme, decreasing ongoing microvascular platelet aggregation and improving hemolysis and platelet count. It is not about increasing leukocyte production, it does not dissolve clots with enzymes, and it does not reduce platelet production; the goal is to remove pathogenic plasma components and supply the missing enzyme.