Use of blood products and factor concentrates for coagulation therapy

Therapy of coagulation disorders has evolved from early use of fresh whole blood and plasma, to sophisticated recombinant factor concentrates. Although current testing protocols and viral inactivation methods ensure that transfusion of components is safer than ever, the potential for new threats continually exists, e.g., West Nile virus. Effective therapy depends on treating the specific deficiency with the safest and most appropriate replacement product, in the proper dose.