What is plasma?

Plasma is the clear liquid portion of blood that exists after both red and white cells are removed.

Plasma makes up approximately 60% of blood, and is composed of 90% water.

Plasma contains proteins and antibodies that are collected for:

• Immune system deficiencies
• Rh incompatibility
• Cardiopulmonary needs
• Pediatric HIV
• Burn victims
• Hepatitis
• Certain liver conditions
• Bleeding disorders
• Shock/trauma victims

Plasmapheresis

We collect your plasma using a process called Plasmapheresis. This is a special process that separates the plasma from the blood and collects it in a bottle.  The uncollected parts of the blood, including red blood cells and white blood cells, are returned to the donor.  This allows the donor to donate up to two times a week because they do not have to replenish the parts of the blood that are returned to them.