Apheresis in Clinical Use


H.E.L.P. Apheresis (Heparin-induced Extracorporeal LDL/Fibrinogen Precipitation) is an established therapeutic procedure that has been in clinical use for nearly four decades. It was originally developed for the treatment of severe lipid metabolism disorders and is currently approved in Germany for specific indications such as therapy-resistant hypercholesterolemia and hyperlipoproteinemia.

The method is being applied under appropriate medical evaluation to support patients presenting with complex inflammatory and circulatory symptoms, including those associated with Long COVID and ME/CFS.


Focus of Application in Long COVID and ME/CFS


Dr. Beate Jaeger has been working with H.E.L.P. Apheresis in the context of Long COVID and ME/CFS based on individual diagnostic assessments and in accordance with clinical need. The procedure aims to reduce circulating factors that may contribute to inflammation and microvascular dysfunction.


In patients with Long COVID, clinical findings often suggest a dysregulation of coagulation and endothelial function. H.E.L.P. Apheresis uses unfractionated heparin to bind plasma components such as fibrinogen and, potentially, circulating spike protein fragments. This process may contribute to the reduction of microthrombi and improved blood rheology, while also aiming to lower levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein and selected cytokines, depending on the individual response. These mechanisms remain under ongoing clinical observation and research, and the therapy is administered according to established protocols and under continuous medical supervision.


H.E.L.P. Apheresis has been observed, in selected patients, to improve blood flow parameters that may influence oxygen exchange in the microcirculation, including in organs such as the heart, brain, and lungs. The procedure is generally well-tolerated and, based on current clinical data, does not significantly impact protective antibodies, leukocytes, or platelets. When used under appropriate medical supervision, it may serve as part of an individualized strategy to support patients experiencing complex symptoms associated with Long COVID or ME/CFS.