A galectin-1, 9, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15 binding molecule for use in a method of treating a condition in a mammal mediated at least in part by active said galectin in the blood, comprising: selecting a mammal in need of reduction of circulating levels of said galectin； and conducting plasmapheresis on the blood of said mammal to reduce circulating levels of active said galectin, wherein said plasmapheresis is conducted so as to selectively remove said galectin by contact with said galectin binding molecule, such that at least ten percent of the circulating said galectin in the serum of that individual is removed by said plasmapheresis.
