What Is Therapeutic Plasma Exchange?
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE), also known as plasmapheresis or apheresis, is an advanced medical procedure that removes harmful substances from blood plasma and replaces it with clean, nutrient-rich fluids –helping restore balance and reduce inflammation at a cellular level. Plasma can carry inflammatory proteins, toxins, and autoantibodies that contribute to chronic disease and accelerate aging. By replacing unhealthy plasma with albumin, a sterile protein solution rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients, TPE helps detoxify the body, promote cellular healing, and support optimal function.
Think of it as changing the water in a fishbowl–removing what’s toxic so your body’s internal environment can thrive again.
Watch the video for a brief overview of TPE ↑
Talk with a Nurse
Our nurses are ready to speak to you and answer your questions. Call us @ 703-532-4892.
What Conditions Can Therapeutic Plasma Exchange Help Treat?
Therapeutic plasma exchange can treat a variety of diseases, including:
• Autoimmune diseases
• Long COVID
• PANS/PANDAS
• Cardiovascular & inflammatory conditions
• Alzheimer’s and cognitive decline
TPE is also emerging as a powerful tool in regenerative and longevity medicine, helping improve energy, cognition, and overall healthspan.
Clinical Research on TPE
Long COVID: Long COVID is a complex, multi-system illness that is difficult to diagnose since its underlying pathology can be difficult to determine. However, TPE has shown promise in reducing key biomarkers such as inflammation, elevated blood lipids and antibodies that may be part of post-infectious syndromes like Long COVID.
PANS/PANDAS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome/ Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal infections): Therapeutic plasma exchange is an accepted first-line therapy (either alone or coordinated with other treatments) for PANDAS by The American Society for Apheresis. TPE has shown to significantly improve side effects such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), dysgraphia, urinary urgency, anxiety, tics, and other neurological issues. In another study, PANDAS patients improved by 65% on average, with many children experiencing dramatic recovery within weeks after completing a series of treatments.
Watch Dr.Gary Kaplan and Dr. Dobri Kiprov discuss TPE and PANS/PANDAS →
Alzheimer’s Disease: Clinical studies show that TPE can slow cognitive decline in patients with Alzhiemer’s. In a study performed by Dr. Dobri Kiprov, a pioneer in TPE, the progression of disease was stopped in 67% of participants with moderate to severe Alzheimer’s.
Watch Dr.Gary Kaplan and Dr. Dobri Kiprov discuss TPE and Alzheimer’s →
Longevity: Biological aging is inevitable, but determined on a variety of health and lifestyle factors. A recent clinical study showed a reduction in the advancement of biological aging with the bi-weekly use of TPE, showing benefits for immune health, cognitive function, and overall resilience. Participants who received bi-weekly TPE with immune globulin (IVIG) showed the greatest biological age reversal across 15 molecular aging markers, as measured by advanced epigenetic clocks.
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in the Northern Virginia / Washington, D.C. Area
The Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine is proud to partner with Dr. Dobri Kiprov, a pioneering expert in therapeutic plasma exchange, to bring outpatient TPE to the greater Washington, D.C. area at the Kaplan Center. This makes the Kaplan Center the first and only outpatient location for TPE in the area.
Once available only in hospitals, Dr. Kiprov pioneered the use of TPE in outpatient settings through groundbreaking clinical research. As a result, more outpatient facilities are now available across the country today, but are still very limited.
Together with Dr. Gary Kaplan, a leader in integrative medicine and chronic illness care, the Kaplan Center brings this life-changing therapy closer to home for patients seeking recovery, rejuvenation, and hope.
Watch the full interview with Dr. Gary Kaplan and Dr. Dobri Kiprov →
How the TPE Process Works
Each therapeutic plasma exchange session is approximately 1-2 hours and is performed by nurses specially trained in TPE, using an FDA-approved medical filtration machine.
- ASSESSMENT: Before treatment, we perform a full patient evaluation with lab testing to ensure safety and personalized care.
- FILTRATION: Blood is passed through the TPE machine, separating harmful plasma from healthy blood components.
- REPLACEMENT: The removed plasma is replaced with albumin and nutrient-rich fluids to promote repair and detoxification.
- MONITORING: A dedicated nurse closely monitors vitals and any side effects all throughout your session.
On December 2, 2025, Dr. Kaplan hosted an informative webinar with Q&A on TPE and it’s applications.
Treatment Frequency & Pricing
Most patients begin with a series of six sessions, followed by maintenance treatments every few months or as advised by your physician. Every patient’s health profile is unique. To determine your best treatment plan and receive pricing information, call us today at (703) 532-4892. Package options are available.
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE)?
Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), also known as plasmapheresis, is a medical procedure that removes plasma (the liquid portion of your blood) and replaces it with fresh clean plasma. This helps remove harmful inflammatory substances such as antibodies, proteins, or toxins from your blood that can contribute to disease. TPE helps to detox the body, promote cellular healing, and support optimal function.
Why has my provider at the Kaplan Center recommended therapeutic plasma exchange?
Your Kaplan Center provider has recommended therapeutic plasma exchange to help treat your condition by removing substances in your blood that may be causing symptoms or affecting your health.
How does the procedure work?
Each therapeutic plasma exchange session is performed by nurses specially trained in TPE, using an FDA-approved medical filtration machine. A dedicated nurse closely monitors vitals and any side effects all throughout your session. Before treatment, we perform a full patient evaluation with lab testing to ensure safety and personalized care.
- Blood is removed through an IV or catheter
- A machine separates the plasma from your blood cells and removes the plasma
- Your blood cells are combined with clean plasma
- The blood is returned safely to your body
How long does a treatment take?
Each therapeutic plasma exchange treatment at Kaplan Center usually lasts 1 to 2 hours, depending on your individual treatment plan.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments varies. Some patients need only a few sessions, while others may need multiple treatments over several weeks. Your Kaplan Center care team will discuss your schedule with you.
Will the procedure hurt?
You may feel a brief pinch when the IV or catheter is placed. Most patients feel little discomfort during treatment. You may feel cold, tired, or slightly lightheaded.
How should I prepare for my appointment at the Kaplan Center?
- Eat a light meal before your visit
- Drink plenty of fluids (unless instructed otherwise)
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Take your medications as prescribed unless told not to
- Let the Kaplan Center staff know if you are feeling unwell
What are common side effects?
Some patients may experience:
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chills or feeling cold
- Tingling in the lips or fingers
Kaplan Center staff will monitor you closely during treatment.
Are there risks with therapeutic plasma exchange?
Plasmapheresis is generally safe, but possible risks include:
- Low blood pressure
- Bruising or bleeding at the catheter site
- Infection
- Allergic reaction to replacement fluids
Your Kaplan Center care team takes every precaution to keep you safe.
Can I eat or drink during treatment?
Be sure to eat breakfast (or lunch) prior to the procedure.
What should I do after my treatment?
- Rest for the remainder of the day
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Avoid heavy lifting
- Monitor the catheter or IV site
Can I drive myself home?
Many patients can drive themselves home after treatment. If you feel weak or dizzy, please arrange for someone to drive you.
When should I contact the clinic?
Call the Kaplan Center if you experience:
- Fever or chills
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Bleeding that does not stop
- Signs of infection at the catheter site
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
Who can I contact if I have questions?
If you have any questions or concerns before or after your treatment, please contact our office.
Still Have Questions? Talk with a Nurse
If you are interested in TPE but have more questions, please give us a call! Our nurses are ready to speak to you and answer your questions.