Ri Ka Ze Shi

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness and safety of erythrocytapheresis in people living with Chronic Mountain Sickness (CMS), a condition affecting residents at high altitudes. The study includes patients who have lived continuously at elevations of 2500 meters or higher for at least one year and have symptoms such as headache, dizziness, fatigue, and others related to CMS. Participants are randomly assigned to two groups to compare outcomes between standard care alone and standard care plus erythrocytapheresis, a procedure that reduces red blood cell levels. In the intervention group, erythrocytapheresis involves removing a specific volume of red blood cells using an automated machine that separates blood components. The patient's plasma and other cells are returned to their body along with replacement fluids to maintain blood volume. The control group receives standard treatments, including supplemental oxygen and medical management without the procedure. The study measures differences in clinical symptoms, exercise capacity through the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test, and blood-related indicators to assess treatment effects. Participants will be monitored for changes in their CMS symptom scores 48 hours after the erythrocytapheresis or before discharge for those receiving standard care. Follow-up assessments will continue to evaluate safety and effectiveness over time. Various clinical tests, questionnaires, and hemodynamic measures will be used to track participant health and treatment response throughout the study period.

Researchers are evaluating whether High-flow Nasal Cannula Oxygen Therapy (HFNC) offers better respiratory support compared to Conventional Oxygen Therapy (COT) for patients suffering from High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). Although COT is the standard initial treatment for HAPE, the role of HFNC, which has shown benefits in other types of acute respiratory failure and pulmonary edema, is not well understood in this condition. This study aims to fill that gap by directly comparing these two oxygen therapies in a randomized controlled setting. The study compares two treatments: HFNC and COT. HFNC is given through a specialized system that includes active humidification and a heated-wire circuit, delivered via a wide nasal cannula. Patients receive either HFNC or the conventional oxygen treatment to support their breathing. The study focuses on how quickly patients can be weaned off supplemental oxygen, which is expected to take about 3 to 5 days from the start of treatment. Participants will be monitored closely with assessments to track their respiratory status, symptoms, and recovery progress. Researchers will measure the time from randomization until patients no longer need supplemental oxygen. The study involves adult patients who recently developed HAPE symptoms after ascending to high altitudes. Safety and treatment response will be observed throughout the intervention period, with follow-up as needed to ensure participant well-being and collect data on recovery times.