Has anyone has plasmapheresis for an intractable itch?

[Jill68]

[littledragon23]

Good morning Jill68,

I only have been diagnosed recently with PBC, but I have been reading a lot of posts here with interest. In regards to your question. I came across a post where someone had the plasmapheresis and it didn't work. She wrote that all the time in hospital and the pain afterward was not worth the short time without itching. However, I can't remember anymore who's blog that was.

[suemac1]

Hi jill I have had the plasmapheresis done I had it done about 8 yrs ago an I found it helped me I found I have been so much better after the plasmapheresis i still take rifpamcin as well for the itch but have found life so much better than scratching the skin of myself everyone reacts different to the various treatments I know for me it helped but I have seen other posts where it has,nt helped ask your consultant for more info if you are worried , i have had pbc for over 20 years so the itch has been an issue for me but found the pheresis helped so did the rifpramcin you can only try see what works best for you hope you keep well

[Jill68]

Thanks for your replies, I have tried every medication possible for the itch, rifampicin being one which didn't agree with me. I have an appointment at the transplant unit on Thursday with a new specialist so I will see what he comes up with. I have had the itch for six years now and just can't live with it anymore!