Plasma Apheresis Shows Promise for Severe PANDAS Cases
Dr. Kumar’s Take:
This case series from Georgetown University offers strong clinical evidence that therapeutic plasma apheresis (TPA) can bring life-changing improvements for children suffering from severe PANDAS. Most had already failed standard therapies, yet showed an average 65% improvement at 6 months and 78% improvement at long-term follow-up. TPA seems especially helpful when symptoms are extreme—such as aggression, suicidality, or dangerous food refusal. It’s not a first-line treatment, but it can be a critical option when all else fails.