Plasma

Plasma is the liquid portion of the blood and is a protein-salt solution in which red and white blood cells and Platelets are suspended.

Plasma, which is 90% water, constitutes about 55% of blood volume. Plasma contains:

• Albumin - the chief protein constituent
  
• Fibrinogen - responsible in part, for the clotting of blood
  
• Globulins - including antibodies and other clotting proteins.

Plasma serves a variety of functions, from maintaining a satisfactory blood pressure and volume to supplying critical proteins for blood clotting and immunity. It also serves as the medium of exchange for vital minerals such as sodium and potassium.

Find out about giving a plasma donation through a process called apheresis here.