Overview

In this feasibility study, we aim to explore therapeutic Rheopheresis (RheoP) as a novel treatment option for SSc-associated Raynaud's phenomenon and/or digital ulcers and compare it to the standard of care treatment (intravenous iloprost. RheoP has been used for RP/DU with some success in observational studies, nevertheless, the optimal treatment modality, duration, or frequency of RheoP (and PEX in general) in SSc has not been established as of yet.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adult patients fulfilling ACR/EULAR classification criteria for SSc
2. Presence of RP with or without DU
3. Failure of at least one standard of care treatment (CCB or iloprost) for at least three months
4. RCS > 4
5. Possibility to obtain venous access (either through a peripherally or centrally inserted catheter)

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Significant anemia (<8 g/dL)
2. Clinically relevant hemorrhagic diathesis or coagulopathy
3. Diabetes mellitus
4. Serious acute or chronic kidney (eGFR<30 ml/min/1.73m2) or liver failure
5. Hypotension with systolic blood pressure <100 mmHg
6. Chronic viral infections (HIV, Hepatitis B, C)
7. Epilepsia, psychosis, dementia, or other relevant neurologic condition precluding the conduct of plasmapheresis
8. Malignant disease or any other condition with life expectancy <12 months
9. Known history of alcohol or drug abuse
10. Long-term serious tobacco abuse with documented severe vascular disease (Fontaine >III).
11. Severe hyperlipoproteinemia, defined as a significant elevation of Lp(a) or LDL cholesterol despite standard doses of medical therapy