Cytokine removal is a medical device used in critical care settings to remove inflammatory mediators from the bloodstream of patients with conditions such as sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and cardiac surgery-associated inflammatory response syndrome (CARS). The body can produce excessive levels of cytokines in inflammation due to severe infection. This device removes these cytokine substances in your blood. Cytosorb has received clearance from the FDA for marketing medical devices in the United States. The clearance was granted on September 1, 2011.

Cytokine removal uses in the treatment of COVID-19 patients with severe symptoms and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Cytokine removal should only be used by qualified healthcare professionals and requires specialized medical training. It is a medical device used in critical care settings where a cartridge containing porous polymer beads is connected to the patient's circulation. Blood is circulated through the cartridge, and the inflammatory mediators are selectively adsorbed onto the surface of the beads.

Cytokine removal is generally considered safe, but like any medical treatment, it can cause side effects. Some of the common side effects of treatment include hypotension (low blood pressure), fever, bleeding, and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). Serious adverse events such as sepsis, anaphylactic shock, and device-related complications like clotting or breakage may also occur, but these are rare.

The use of Cytokine removal in patients who have an active infection or sepsis increases the risk of developing sepsis-induced coagulopathy (SIC), which can lead to excessive bleeding or clotting. The treatment may cause the release of cytokines, which are proteins that can trigger inflammation in the body. Patients with pre-existing inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, may be at increased risk of experiencing an exacerbation of their symptoms during treatment with this device. The use of this device in patients with implanted electronic medical devices, such as pacemakers or defibrillators, may interfere with the function of these devices. It may cause the depletion of certain electrolytes in the body, such as calcium or magnesium.

During treatment with Cytokine removal, the patients should be closely monitored for signs of SIC. Patients who are at risk of electrolyte imbalances, such as those with kidney or liver disease, should be monitored closely during treatment. Patients with electronic devices in the body like pacemakers should be monitored closely during treatment to ensure that their medical devices are functioning properly. The safety and effectiveness of treatment in pediatric patients has not been established. The device should be used with caution in children, and only under the direction of a qualified pediatric specialist.

If you are taking Cytokine removal treatment, it is important to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your healthcare provider. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should discuss their risk and benefit with the doctor. Be sure to provide your doctor with a complete medical history, including any medications you are taking and any pre-existing medical conditions you may have. Always follow the dosing instructions and precautions provided by your doctor, and report any side effects or adverse reactions to your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Never stop or modify your medication regimen without consulting your healthcare provider.

1. Cytosorbents, US Food and Drug Administration, [Updated on April 10 2020], [ Accessed on 27th Apri 2023], https://www.fda.gov/media/136866/download
2. Dina Ragab et al; The COVID-19 Cytokine Storm; What We Know So Far; Frontiers in Immunology [Published on 16/06/2020], [27th April 2023] https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2020.01446/full

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.