deInnovative support through therapeutic apheresis for chronic infections
People with an HIV infection often struggle not only with the virus itself, but also with the long-term consequences of a weakened immune system, chronic inflammation and the side effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART). In such cases, modern blood purification – medically known as apheresis or plasmapheresis – can be a valuable complementary therapy option in such cases.
Important: Therapeutic apheresis does not replace antiretroviral therapy for HIV, but can help to relieve the immune system and improve general well-being.
What does apheresis do for HIV?
1. reduction of chronic inflammatory processes
HIV infections often lead to a permanently elevated inflammatory status. This further weakens the immune system and favors concomitant diseases. During apheresis, inflammation-promoting cytokines such as TNF-α or IL-6 are removed from the blood – this can significantly reduce inflammatory activity and help to stabilize the immune system in HIV patients.
2. removal of immune complexes and autoantibodies
HIV can trigger the formation of autoantibodies and immune complexes, which further burden the immune system. Therapeutic apheresis helps to specifically filter these harmful substances from the blood – an important support for immune dysregulation caused by HIV.
3. short-term reduction of the viral load in plasma
Individual studies have shown that the viral load in blood plasma decreases in the short term, as free HIV particles are also removed during plasmapheresis. However, HIV continues to replicate in the cells, so this effect is only temporary. Apheresis therefore does not replace antiretroviral therapy, but at best complements it.
4. relief from the side effects of HIV therapy
Some HIV patients suffer from side effects of ART, particularly due to toxic metabolic products or drug side effects. Blood purification can help to eliminate metabolic residues and harmful substances – and thus improve the tolerability of HIV therapy.
Why does apheresis not replace HIV therapy?
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is currently the only scientifically recognized method to effectively control the progression of HIV. Apheresis:
- only removes free viruses from the plasma, but not the infected immune cells (CD4 cells),
- cannot stop the virus from multiplying,
- and has no proven long-term effect on the course of HIV disease.
Nevertheless, it can be useful to support the immune system – especially in cases of strong inflammatory activity, symptoms of exhaustion or impaired detoxification function.
Advantages of apheresis for HIV – a complementary measure
Anti-inflammatory & immunomodulation
- Filtering pro-inflammatory signaling substances from the blood plasma
- Better control over systemic inflammation
- Strengthening immune homeostasis
Detoxification & metabolic relief
- Elimination of toxic drug residues
- Relief for the liver and kidneys, which are stressed by long-term medication
- Improvement of cell regeneration and general well-being
Improvement in drug tolerance
- Apheresis can help to remove metabolic residues from the blood
- Support for side effects of ART
Psychological effect
- Many patients see apheresis as an active measure to “cleanse themselves from the inside”
- The feeling of contributing to the stabilization of the immune system can bring emotional relief
Risks & limitations of apheresis for HIV
No control of the viral infection
- HIV remains in the infected cells
- Apheresis only removes free viruses, but not the cause of the infection
No substitute for ART
- There is and remains no alternative to antiretroviral therapy to control the progression of the disease
- Repeated use at regular intervals may make sense
- The therapy is not medically appropriate for every patient – an individual assessment is essential. We will be happy to advise you.
Who can benefit from apheresis for HIV?
This form of supplementary blood purification is particularly suitable for:
- HIV patients with chronic signs of inflammation
- People with side effects from long-term medication
- Patients with severe fatigue and slower regeneration
- People with additional strains such as EBV, Lyme disease or long COVID
VitaSangius: Therapeutic apheresis to boost the immune system in HIV patients
At VitaSangius we offer customized apheresis concepts to support chronic infections such as HIV – in addition to conventional therapy, not as a substitute.
Our focus:
- Medical history and advice from experienced specialists
- Individual apheresis protocols for people with HIV, EBV, long COVID or chronic inflammation
- Gentle blood cleansing procedures with a focus on relief and regeneration
Frequently asked questions about apheresis for HIV
How often is apheresis necessary for HIV?
This depends on the individual condition, the symptoms and the objective. As a rule, a short-term series of treatments is recommended, which can be repeated if necessary.
Is apheresis covered by health insurance?
As this is a complementary medical measure, the costs are not generally covered by statutory health insurance companies. Private health insurance companies decide on a case-by-case basis.
Is medical clarification necessary?
Yes, before each apheresis we take a detailed medical history and, if necessary, consult with your treating infectious disease specialist.
Conclusion: Therapeutic apheresis for HIV – immune-boosting but not curative
Apheresis for HIV is not a therapy against the virus itself, but can be used as a supplementary measure to relieve the immune system, reduce inflammation and improve quality of life. It is particularly suitable for patients with chronic complaints, therapy side effects or the desire for gentle detoxification.
Would you like to know whether apheresis could be useful for you?
📞 Give us a call or arrange a non-binding consultation at our practice in Potsdam.
We take the time to answer your questions and discuss your individual situation. Get in touch now.
VitaSangius – Your experts for blood purification and immune strengthening
