Evaluating Erythrocytapheresis Treatment for Chronic Mountain Sickness in High-Altitude Residents

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of erythrocytapheresis in people living with Chronic Mountain Sickness CMS, a condition affecting residents at high altitudes. The study will involve adults who have lived continuously at elevations of 2500 meters or higher for at least one year. Researchers will compare outcomes like CMS symptom scores, walking ability, and blood and heart function between groups to assess if erythrocytapheresis helps reduce hematocrit levels and improve health. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will receive erythrocytapheresis, a procedure where red blood cells are selectively removed from the blood while other components are returned and replaced with fluids to maintain balance, alongside standard treatments like oxygen and medical care. The other group will receive only the standard care without erythrocytapheresis. Both groups will be monitored closely to evaluate and compare their clinical progress. Throughout the study, participants will undergo assessments including symptom scoring, the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test to evaluate exercise capacity, blood oxygen level measurements, and hematologic tests. These evaluations will be done at 48 to 72 hours after the procedure or prior to discharge for the control group, and during follow-up periods. The study will also monitor for any procedure-related complications. Participants involvement will last through the treatment and follow-up phases to gather comprehensive data on the interventions impact and safety.

Erythrocytapheresis for Chronic Mountain Sickness