[Therapeutic Effect of Convalescent Plasma Transfusion on Fulminant Viral Infectious Diseases--Review]

Hui-Ru Wang1, Hui-Lan Liu2

  • 1Department of Transfusion, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (Anhui Provincial Hospital), Hefei 230001, Anhui Province, China.

Insights

Convalescent plasma therapy is an alternative treatment for COVID-19 due to a lack of specific drugs. This review examines its use in past viral infections to guide COVID-19 treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Virology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic emerged in late 2019, rapidly spreading globally.
  • Specific antiviral drugs for COVID-19 are currently limited.
  • Convalescent plasma therapy is being explored as a potential treatment option.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review clinical studies and case reports of convalescent plasma therapy in previous viral infectious diseases.
  • To provide insights and guidance for the application of convalescent plasma therapy in treating COVID-19.
  • To clarify uncertainties regarding donor selection, patient suitability, treatment timing, dosage, and treatment efficacy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical studies and case reports.
  • Analysis of convalescent plasma therapy in historical viral outbreaks.
  • Synthesis of findings to inform COVID-19 treatment protocols.

Main Results:

  • Previous viral disease outbreaks have utilized convalescent plasma therapy with varying success.
  • Key parameters such as donor selection, patient criteria, and treatment timing remain areas for optimization.
  • The benefits and risks associated with convalescent plasma therapy require further elucidation.

Conclusions:

  • Convalescent plasma therapy shows promise as an alternative treatment for COVID-19.
  • Evidence from past viral infections suggests the need for standardized protocols.
  • Further research is essential to optimize the use of convalescent plasma for COVID-19 patients.

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