Improvement can sometimes occur within days, especially in myasthenia gravis. In other conditions, especially where there is extensive tissue damage, improvement is slower but can still occur within weeks. MDA supported pioneering research to develop plasmapheresis. However, payment for this procedure is not among the many services included in MDA's program. A number of health insurance plans do cover the procedure.
Plasmapheresis is performed at many major medical centers across the country.
MDA clinic directors can offer advice about the availability of this treatment and its use for specific conditions.