Guidelines for the use of fresh frozen plasma |
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Authors: | F. A. Ala M. Greaves J. Jones M. Levin S. J. Machin C. Morgan W. Murphy J. A. F. Napier A. R. Thomson |
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Affiliation: | British Society for Haematology, London, U.K. |
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Abstract: | Fresh frozen plasma should only be used to treat bleeding episodes or prepare patients for surgery in certain defined situations. Definite indications for the use of FFP: 1. Replacement of single coagulation factor deficiencies, where a specific or combined factor concentrate is unavailable. 2. Immediate reversal or warfarin effect. 3. Acute disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). 4. Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). Conditional uses: FFP only indicated in the presence of bleeding and disturbed coagulation: 1. Massive transfusion. 2. Liver disease. 3. cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. 4. Special paediatric indications. No justification for the use of FFP: 1. Hypovolaemia. 2. Plasma exchange procedures. 3. 'Formula' replacement. 4. Nutritional support. 5. Treatment of immunodeficiency states. |
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Keywords: | clinical use fresh frozen plasma guidelines |
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