What is Blood Plasma
It’s the light yellow
liquid component of blood that keeps blood cells in suspension.
It makes up approximately 55% of the total blood volume.
Composition of Blood Plasma:
Water (90-92%): Acts as a solvent and helps transport substances.
Plasma Proteins (7-8%): Includes Albumin (maintains osmotic pressure), Globulins (contains antibodies for immunity), and Fibrinogen (essential for blood clotting).
Other Dissolved Substances (1-2%): Such as nutrients, electrolytes, hormones, waste products, and gases.
Functions of Blood Plasma:
Transport: Carries nutrients, hormones, and waste products.
Regulation: Maintains pH, body temperature, and osmotic balance.
Defense: Contains antibodies and clotting factors for protection.
Clotting: Helps in blood clot formation.
Buffering: Maintains acid-base balance.
Clinical Uses of Blood Plasma:
Plasma Transfusion: Used for patients with blood clotting problems, burns, or shock.
Plasma Derivatives: Immunoglobulins and clotting factors derived from plasma are used in medicine.