Photopheresis

About

Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is an autologous immune cell therapy that processes your blood through a cell separation machine and then uses it to treat severe skin conditions such as Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) and Graft versus host disease (GVHD). First, the THERAKOS® CELLEX® Photopheresis System separates your white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Then using a photoactive medication called Uvadex (Psoralen) and ultraviolet (UV) light, the system treats the abnormal white blood cells. Once treated, the blood is returned back into your body which helps your immune system (acting like a vaccine to prevent cancer cells from replicating). Typically a session lasts around 4 hours. You might have multiple sessions depending on your physician's treatment plan.