What is Therapeutic Phlebotomy?
Therapeutic phlebotomy is a medical procedure where a small amount of blood is removed from the body under controlled conditions. Unlike a regular blood draw for testing, therapeutic phlebotomy is prescribed by a healthcare provider to help treat certain medical conditions.
By lowering the number of red blood cells, iron levels, or overall blood volume, this treatment can help restore balance in the body and relieve symptoms.
Conditions Treated with Therapeutic Phlebotomy
Some common conditions where therapeutic phlebotomy is used include:
Hemochromatosis – a disorder where the body stores too much iron.
Polycythemia Vera – when the body produces too many red blood cells.
Porphyria Cutanea Tarda – a condition that affects the skin and liver.
Sickle Cell Disease & Thalassemia (in certain cases) – to manage iron overload from frequent transfusions.
