Plasmapheresis in Cyprus. The patient was admitted to intensive care after the procedure.

After undergoing plasmapheresis at a facility that, according to the doctor, lacked the required permits, the patient was admitted to the intensive care unit. This incident occurred in 2023. The woman survived and is currently in good condition.

The case was revealed by Dr. Marinos Sotiriou, director of the American Medical Center in Nicosia. Police confirmed they were conducting an investigation, but the evidence gathered did not allow for the filing of charges. The Ministry of Health warns against procedures performed in unapproved facilities and therapies without proper medical justification.

The patient had serious complications

Dr. Sotiriou told Cypriot media that the patient was in a life-threatening condition and required hospitalization in an intensive care unit. The procedure was to be performed at a facility presented as a clinic, which, according to him, lacked the required permits.

The doctor also emphasized that plasmapheresis itself should not be portrayed as a dangerous or unreliable method. It is a recognized medical procedure, used for specific indications and according to strict protocols.

The problem is said to concern the performance of procedures without appropriate qualifications, medical facilities, supervision and the ability to react quickly in the event of complications.

What is plasmapheresis?

Plasmapheresis involves separating plasma from other blood components. In therapeutic applications, plasma containing specific antibodies or other harmful substances may be removed and replaced with a suitable fluid.

The procedure is used to treat certain neurological, autoimmune, and hematological conditions, among others. It should be performed based on a medical indication, by qualified personnel, and in a facility prepared to manage potential complications.

Dr. Sotiriou emphasized that the therapy has the potential to save lives. However, he cautioned against offering it as an unproven method for improving overall health, "cleansing" the body, or treating ailments without a proper diagnosis.

The police were investigating

According to information provided by the Cyprus Police, in November 2023 it received a letter from the Ministry of Health regarding a specific centre and the therapy offered there.

The report concerned a patient who suffered serious complications following surgery and required hospitalization. The police conducted an investigation and, upon completion, forwarded the case file to the Republic's Legal Service.

However, after analyzing the materials, insufficient evidence was found to prove that a crime had been committed. Therefore, no criminal charges were filed in this case.

Dr. Sotiriou said that difficulties in investigating the incident may have stemmed from uncertainties regarding regulations and the institution responsible for oversight. He said the center was known outside Cyprus and also accepted patients from other countries, including those seeking help for long-term COVID-19.

The Ministry warns against unproven therapies

The Ministry of Health assured that it has mechanisms to control facilities that provide inappropriate medical services or procedures that may threaten patient safety.

At the same time, it called for caution regarding advertised alternative therapies, especially if they lack sufficient scientific support or are offered outside approved facilities.

Before undergoing plasmapheresis or any other advanced medical procedure, the patient should check whether there is a justified indication for it, who will perform the procedure, and whether the facility has the required permits and adequate facilities.

The Ministry also encourages reporting cases in which medical procedures may be performed illegally or in places without the required permits.

Sources: Ministry of Health, Cyprus Police, American Medical Center, Philenews, AlphaNews, SigmaLive