Pruritus of cholestasis treated with plasma perfusion
Carey, W.D.; Smith, J.; Asanuma, Y.; Malchesky, P.; Ferguson, D.R.; Greenstreet, R.; Nose, Y.
American Journal of Gastroenterology 76(4): 330-337
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9270 PMID: 7325144 Document Number: 181235
Patients with uncontrollable pruritus secondary to cholestatic liver disease were subjected to plasma perfusion in an attempt to remove the toxins responsible for this symptom. The improvement in the degree of pruritus was dramatic and surprisingly long-lasting in five of six patients. One patient had a response more difficult to evaluate. Serum bile acids levels fell in all patients in whom pruritus improved but not in the patient who responded less favorably.