Minimal number of plasma exchanges needed to reduce immunoglobulin in Guillain-Barre syndrome

Plasma exchange (PE) in Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) probably removes pathogenic antibodies. Results of a recent clinical study by the French Cooperative Group suggest that at least two sessions of PE are required. As an alternative procedure, we examined the effect of the number of PEs on the reduction of immunoglobulins in 11 patients. A significant immunoglobulin decrease was obtained in the first two sessions but not in subsequent ones. Eased on the French trial results and our findings, we conclude that at least two PEs are needed for treating GBS.