Plasma exchange in systemic lupus erythematosus.

Plasma exchange (PE) was performed in 8 of 14 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) PE was instituted as an additional therapy during active disease in patients who did not respond to conventional therapy. The best results were obtained in plasmapherized patients; in fact, immune complex serum levels disappeared rapidly, whereas anti-DNA antibodies decreased slowly. The changes observed indicate that PE may be beneficial, especially when it is associated with drugs that can block antibody rebound. A variety of "technical factors" may influence PE therapy which therefore must be monitored appropriately.