G-1カラムによる顆粒球除去療法

概要

論文の詳細を見る
Recent reports indicate a major role of granulocytes and monocytes/macrophages in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) ; arthritic joints are infiltrated with these phagocytic leukocytes and it is believed that these cells, by releasing degradative proteinases, cytokines and reactive oxygen species, contribute to joint destruction. The effect of granulocyte and monocyte apheresis column (G-1) on an immune-complex-induced arthritis model in rabbits was investigated. The joint swelling was significantly lower in the G-1-treated animals than in the control animals, and there was a decreased number of infiltrating leukocytes into the arthritic joint. Hence. RA patients might benefit from granulocyte and monocyte apheresis. Apheresis was carried out for 143 patients with RA using a column packed with 220 g cellulose acetate beads, which selectively adsorb granulocytes and monocytes. Patients received apheresis of 1 hr duration once or twice per week, over a 4 week period, at a flow rate of 30 ml/min. Apheresis significantly suppressed swollen and tender joint counts and duration of morning stiffness, and increased grip strength. There was also a fall in TNF-α production by peripheral blood monocytes observed. It is concluded that this alternative treatment induces a kind of immunonmodulation.
日本アフェレシス学会の論文
1998-10-31