Thrombocytapheresis (θrɒmbəʊsaɪtəfɪˈriːsɪs) is a medical procedure that involves selectively removing platelets from a person's blood. The word is composed of several smaller medical terms joined together. "Thrombo-" refers to blood clots, "-cyto-" means cells, and "-pheresis" means removal. So "thrombocytapheresis" means the selective removal of cells responsible for blood clotting. The word may be difficult to spell and pronounce, but it is essential in the medical field as it describes the process of separating blood components.
Thrombocytapheresis refers to a therapeutic procedure that involves the separation and removal of platelets from a person's blood. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are essential blood cells that play a crucial role in blood clotting and preventing excessive bleeding.
During thrombocytapheresis, the individual's blood is typically collected through an intravenous (IV) line. The blood is then passed through a machine known as apheresis device, which utilizes centrifugation or filtration techniques to separate the platelets from the rest of the blood components, such as red and white blood cells and plasma. The separated platelets are typically collected in a bag or container, while the remaining blood components are returned to the person's body.
This procedure is commonly performed on individuals who have a high platelet count, often associated with certain conditions like essential thrombocythemia, polycythemia vera, and some cases of myelofibrosis. By removing excess platelets from the blood, thrombocytapheresis helps prevent complications such as blood clots or abnormal bleeding, which can occur due to the abnormal production or function of platelets.
Thrombocytapheresis is typically conducted in a clinical or hospital setting by trained medical professionals, including hematologists or technicians specializing in apheresis procedures. The frequency and duration of thrombocytapheresis may vary depending on the individual's medical condition, platelet count, and overall response to the procedure. Close monitoring of the person's blood counts and platelet levels is essential to determine the effectiveness and necessity of repeated thrombocytapheresis sessions.
The word "thrombocytapheresis" is derived from Greek roots.
1. "Thrombo-" comes from the Greek word "thrombos" (θρόμβος), which means "clot" or "coagulation".
2. "-cyto-" comes from the Greek word "kytos" (κύτος), which means "cell".
3. "-apheresis" originates from the Greek word "aphairesis" (ἀφαίρεσις), meaning "removal" or "separation".
Combining these roots, "thrombocytapheresis" refers to a medical procedure that involves the separation and removal of platelets (blood cells that assist with clotting) from the blood.