Positions of selective leukocytapheresis in the medical therapy of ulcerative colitis

Figure 5 Treatment algorithm for ulcerative colitis without corticosteroids. Based on this scheme, patients at any stage of their disease might benefit from GMA and avoid corticosteroids or other drug based medications. Intensive leukocytapheresis (2 or more GMA sessions per week in the first 3 wk) is recommended in severe or fulminating cases. GMA: Granulocyte and monocyte adsorption apheresis; 5-ASA: 5-aminosalicylic acid; 6-MP: 6-Mercaptopurine; AZA: Azathioprine.