Quality of plasma for fractionation--does it matter?

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Science
• Hematology
• Plasma Physics

Background:

• Plasmapheresis techniques often lead to increased activation of platelets, complement, and coagulation compared to whole blood collection.
• Coagulation cascade activation is a concern for thrombogenicity in prothrombin complex concentrates derived from apheresed plasma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate methods for improving factor VIII content and fractionation yield in source plasma.
• To address the challenges of coagulation activation and potential thrombogenicity in plasmapheresis.

Main Methods:

• Evaluating rapid freezing techniques for plasma preservation.
• Assessing increased concentrations of anticoagulants for optimal coagulant activity.
• Investigating anticoagulants that prioritize coagulant over cellular activities.

Main Results:

• Optimized anticoagulation strategies can yield approximately 10% more plasma compared to recovered plasma.
• Potential risks exist when implementing low-citrate anticoagulation in plasmapheresis procedures.

Conclusions:

• Further research into recalcification of citrated plasma with heparin may mitigate risks.
• Optimizing anticoagulation is crucial for enhancing plasma product quality and safety in plasmapheresis.