Blood products
“Blood products” refer to various components derived from blood that are separated and processed for specific medical purposes. Blood is composed of different cellular and plasma components, and these can be isolated to address specific clinical needs. Here are some common blood products:
Whole Blood:
This is blood collected from a donor that contains red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.
Packed Red Blood Cells (PRBCs):
PRBCs are whole blood with most of the plasma and platelets removed. They are often used to treat anemia or to restore red blood cells after significant blood loss.
Platelets:
Platelets are small cell fragments crucial for blood clotting. Platelet transfusions are commonly used for patients with low platelet counts due to conditions like leukemia or after chemotherapy.
Plasma is the liquid component of blood that carries cells and platelets. It contains water, electrolytes, proteins, and clotting factors. Plasma can be used for patients with clotting disorders or liver disease.
This blood product is rich in clotting factors, including fibrinogen. It is often used to control bleeding in patients with clotting disorders or during surgery.
Albumin is a protein found in plasma. It is sometimes used to treat conditions associated with low blood volume, such as severe burns or liver disease.
These are antibodies obtained from blood plasma. They can be used to boost the immune system or treat certain autoimmune disorders.
Factor Concentrates:
Specific clotting factors can be isolated and concentrated for patients with hemophilia or other clotting disorders. These blood products play a crucial role in various medical treatments, including surgeries, trauma care, cancer treatments, and managing certain medical conditions. Blood transfusions and blood product therapies are generally safe but are carefully administered to prevent complications and transfusion reactions. Strict screening and testing protocols are in place to ensure the safety of both donors and recipients.