Double Filtration Plasmapheresis in a Patient with Autoimmune Hepatitis-Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Overlap

Abstract

Double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) therapy was administered to a patient with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH)-systemic lupus erythematosus overlap. The patient had suffered from recurrent AIH attacks with an interval of 3-4 months despite massive corticosteroid administration. After vigorous removal of immunoglobulins by DFPP procedures combined with immunosuppressive therapies, clinical and laboratory findings of AIH were remarkably improved. DFPP might be an optional modality in the treatment of AIH patients, especially for those who are resistant to and/or cannot tolerate massive corticosteroid or immunosuppressive therapies. © 1993, The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine. All rights reserved.