Plasma, the liquid component of blood, has various vital functions and applications in medicine and industry. Here are five uses of plasma:
1. Treating Immunodeficiency Disorders
Plasma contains antibodies that help fight infections. These antibodies can be extracted and concentrated into medications called immunoglobulins. Immunoglobulins are used to treat individuals with weakened immune systems, known as immunodeficiency disorders, helping them fight off infections they would otherwise be vulnerable to. This passive immunity provides immediate, but temporary, protection.
2. Treating Bleeding Disorders
Plasma contains clotting factors, essential proteins that help blood clot and stop bleeding. People with bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia, lack certain clotting factors. Plasma-derived therapies provide these missing clotting factors, enabling them to control bleeding episodes and prevent serious complications. These concentrates are safer than using whole plasma transfusions due to the risk of transfusion-related complications.
3. Treating Burns
Plasma proteins play a crucial role in maintaining blood volume and pressure. Severe burns can cause significant fluid loss, leading to shock and organ damage. Plasma transfusions or plasma-derived products like albumin can help restore blood volume, stabilize blood pressure, and support tissue repair in burn victims.
4. Maintaining Blood Pressure and Volume
As previously mentioned, plasma plays a critical role in maintaining blood pressure and volume. Conditions like sepsis, trauma, and certain autoimmune diseases can disrupt fluid balance in the body. Plasma transfusions can help restore this balance and prevent complications associated with low blood pressure or low blood volume.
5. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Plasma isn't just directly transfused; it's also a crucial ingredient in creating life-saving medications. Companies fractionate plasma to extract and purify specific proteins, such as albumin, clotting factors, and immunoglobulins. These purified proteins are then manufactured into pharmaceutical products used to treat a wide range of conditions, from bleeding disorders to immune deficiencies. This process allows for targeted treatment and reduces the risk of adverse reactions compared to using whole plasma transfusions.
