Table 1.

Immune Modulation Effects of Leukocytapheresis

Reduction of HLA-DR+/CD3+, HLA-DR+/CD8+, and CD11b+/CD8+ cells into the normal range, indicating an immunomodulatory effect18 Increased IL-4, indicating a suppressive effect on inflamed tissue22 Inhibition of nuclear factor-kappa DNA binding, which precludes further activation of the inflammatory response23 Downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor-, IL-8, and CCL5,23,24 and in dendritic cells, which alters the process of antigen presentation, eg, depletion of CD83+ dendritic cells25 Acceleration of wound healing from granulocytes adhering to the column (cellulose acetate beads), which releases hepatocyte growth factor and IL receptor antagonist, both of which have anti-inflammatory tissue repair capabilities26 Mobilization of stem cells from bone marrow replacing adherent white blood cells27

IL=interleukin.