The spelling of the word "pheresis" can be a little tricky, especially when it comes to pronouncing it. The word is spelled with two syllables, with the emphasis on the first syllable: /fəˈri:sɪs/. The first syllable starts with an "f" sound, followed by a short "u" sound, and then an "eh" sound. The second syllable starts with an "r" sound, followed by a long "ee" sound, and then a "s" sound. Overall, the spelling represents a complex medical treatment that involves separating blood cells from plasma.
Pheresis, also known as apheresis, is a medical procedure that involves the selective removal or separation of specific components from a person's blood. This process is typically performed for therapeutic, diagnostic, or research purposes. The word "pheresis" is derived from the Greek terms "aphairesis," meaning taking away or separation, combined with the preposition "a," suggesting that something is being eliminated or isolated.
During pheresis, blood is withdrawn from the individual's body using a specialized machine called an apheresis machine. The machine separates the blood into its different components, such as red blood cells, plasma, platelets, or white blood cells. Depending on the purpose of the procedure, a specific component may be targeted for removal or collection. For instance, plasmapheresis is a type of pheresis that focuses on extracting plasma from the blood, which can be used for blood transfusions or to obtain specific proteins for medical treatments.
Pheresis is often employed in various medical conditions, including autoimmune disorders, genetic diseases, and certain cancers. It can help remove or reduce excess levels of harmful substances, such as toxins or antibodies, from the bloodstream. Additionally, pheresis can be utilized to collect certain components, such as stem cells or platelets, for therapeutic use.
Overall, pheresis is a medical procedure that involves the selective removal or collection of specific blood components through the utilization of an apheresis machine.
The word "pheresis" is derived from the Greek word "pheresis" (φέρεσις), which means "separation" or "taking away". The term originated from the verb "pherein" (φέρειν), which means "to bear" or "to carry". In the medical context, pheresis refers to a procedure in which specific components of blood, such as platelets or plasma, are separated and removed from the body.