Plasma Transfusions

Chapter 467 Plasma Transfusions

Guidelines for plasma transfusion in children (see Table 467-1 on the Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics website at www.expertconsult.com) are similar to those for adults. Plasma is transfused to replace clinically significant deficiencies of plasma proteins (nearly always clotting proteins) for which more highly purified concentrates are not available. Two interchangeable plasma products are available for transfusion, plasma frozen within 8 hr of collection (fresh frozen plasma) and plasma frozen within 24 hr of collection. Although levels of factors V and VIII are lower in the latter plasma product, they are equally efficacious for literally all indications for plasma transfusions (see Table 467-1). Requirements for plasma vary with the specific protein being replaced, but a starting dose of 15 mL/kg is usually satisfactory.