Fresh frozen plasma

Fresh Frozen Plasma

A bag of fresh frozen plasma

Classification
External resources

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Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is a blood product made from the liquid portion of whole blood. It is used in the treatment of conditions where there is a deficiency of clotting factors or other plasma proteins. FFP is obtained by centrifuging whole blood and freezing the plasma within hours of collection to preserve the clotting factors.

Indications

FFP is primarily used in the following situations:

• Coagulation factor deficiencies: FFP is used to treat patients with multiple coagulation factor deficiencies, such as those with liver disease or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
• Warfarin reversal: In cases of severe bleeding or prior to emergency surgery, FFP can be used to reverse the effects of warfarin (an anticoagulant), as it contains vitamin K-dependent clotting factors.
• Massive transfusion protocols: During massive transfusions, FFP is used to replace clotting factors that are lost along with red blood cells.
• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP): FFP is used as part of plasma exchange therapy in TTP.

Administration

FFP is administered intravenously. The dosage and rate of infusion depend on the clinical situation and the patient's body weight. It is important to monitor the patient for any adverse reactions during and after the transfusion.

Risks and Complications

While FFP is generally safe, there are potential risks and complications associated with its use:

• Allergic reactions: Patients may experience mild to severe allergic reactions.
• Transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI): A rare but serious complication characterized by acute respiratory distress.
• Infections: Although screened and tested, there is a minimal risk of transmitting infections.
• Volume overload: Especially in patients with heart failure or renal impairment.

Alternatives

Alternatives to FFP include:

• Prothrombin complex concentrates (PCCs): These are used for rapid reversal of warfarin.
• Recombinant clotting factors: Used in specific factor deficiencies.
• Cryoprecipitate: Contains fibrinogen and is used in certain bleeding disorders.

Also see

• Blood transfusion
• Coagulation
• Plasma exchange
• Cryoprecipitate
• Transfusion medicine

External links

• AABB - Advancing Transfusion and Cellular Therapies Worldwide
• American Red Cross Blood Services