Safety of plasma exchange therapy in patients with myasthenia gravis

: Plasma exchange (PLEX) is effective in myasthenia gravis (MG), but there are concerns about its safety. Methods : We collected data prospectively from 42 patients randomized to PLEX treatment in a comparison study with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). Detailed information on the PLEX treatment methodology and adverse events are reported. Results : Forty of 42 patients completed PLEX. Ninety percent were treated in an outpatient setting. Fifty‐five percent had no complications, and 45% had mild–moderate reactions that did not require stopping treatment; the majority were citrate reactions and peripheral vascular issues that were easily treated. Fifty‐seven percent of patients responded to treatment, and 83% completed PLEX via peripheral venous access. Two patients had severe adverse events: 1 related and 1 unrelated to PLEX. Comorbid disease and age did not predict reactions. Conclusion : PLEX is safe, effective, and well tolerated in patients with MG. Our results do not raise concerns about the safety of PLEX in patients with moderate–severe MG. Muscle Nerve 47: 510–514, 2013