Plasma Exchange in Pediatric Autoimmune Encephalitis
Egypt22 participantsStarted 2026-08-01
Plain-language summary
The aim of the study will be to compare the efficacy of daily plasma exchange (PLEX) versus alternate-day PLEX in achieving a favorable functional outcome in children with autoimmune encephalitis.
The study population will be divided into two groups, the first group will perform PLEX on consecutive days and the second one will perform it every other day. Then, A Favorable functional outcome measure defined as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score ≤ 2. The mRS will be assessed by a blinded assessor at the end of the sessions to determine which method has superior efficacy in treatment of autoimmune encephalitis.
Who can participate
Age range
1 Month – 18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Childern diagnosed as autoimmune encephalitis according to Cellucci et al., 2020; acute/subacute onset (\<3 months) of encephalopathy with at least one of: new focal CNS findings, seizures, CSF pleocytosis, MRI suggestive of encephalitis, and supportive antibody testing when available.
* Autoimmune encephalitis cases indicated clinically for PLEX as determined by the treating team (e.g., severe disease, refractory to steroids/IVIG or as part of first-line combination therapy).
Exclusion Criteria:
* Hemodynamic instability not amenable to plasma exchange.
* Severe coagulopathy uncorrectable prior to PLEX (INR \>2 despite correction, platelets \<50,000/µL unless corrected).
* Contraindications to central venous access placement.
* Enrollment in another interventional trial that would interfere with the outcomes.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Favorable functional outcome defined as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score ≤ 2. The mRS will be assessed by a blinded assessor.
Timeframe: Within 24 hours after completion of the final plasma exchange session.