Photopheresis (or extracorporeal photoimmune therapy [ECP]) using the UVAR® XTS™, is a process developed by THERAKOS, Inc., a Johnson and Johnson Company. During the process of ECP, whole blood is drawn from the patient over several cycles, centrifuged and separated into the components of plasma, white cells (or buffy coat), and red blood cells. A portion of the white cells and the plasma are saved in a separate compartment. The remaining plasma and red blood cells are returned to the patient at the end of each cycle.

The saved buffy coat (white blood cells) and plasma are inoculated with the photosensitizing agent UVADEX®. Photoactivation begins when the suspension is exposed to a prescribed amount of ultraviolet-A light. After photoactivation is complete, the treated suspension is returned to the patient.

Photopheresis performed using the UVAR® XTS™ is a continuous process. During the entire therapy, the patient remains connected to the photopheresis instrument. The duration of time between completion of the buffy coat collection and reinfusion of the light-activated buffy coat is approximately 30 minutes.

The Penn-Jersey Region of the American Red Cross provides mobile photopheresis services as part of its Therapeutic Apheresis program in southeastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. These procedures are performed in hospitals and clinics. We also offer emergency service on a 24-hour/7 day basis.

For more information contact Terri Myszka, RN, Program Director, at (866) 805-3500.