PLASMA EXPANDER Meaning and
Definition
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A plasma expander is a medical term that refers to a solution or substance used to increase the volume of plasma in the blood. Plasma is the liquid component of blood that carries red and white blood cells, platelets, and other vital components throughout the body. Plasma expanders are commonly used in medical emergencies or situations where there is a significant loss of blood volume, such as during surgeries, trauma, or hemorrhage.
These expanders are designed to mimic the osmotic properties of plasma and restore blood volume by increasing the fluid component of the blood. They work by retaining water in the bloodstream and thereby expanding the plasma volume. This effect helps prevent hypovolemia (low blood volume), improves tissue perfusion, and prevents complications resulting from inadequate blood flow.
Plasma expanders can be classified into different types based on their composition. Some examples include colloids, crystalloids, and blood products. Colloids are larger molecules that remain in the blood vessels for a longer duration, exerting their effect by increasing oncotic pressure. Crystalloids, on the other hand, are smaller molecules and work by increasing the overall fluid volume in the blood.
The choice of a plasma expander is based on various factors such as the extent of blood loss, the patient's overall condition, and any specific requirements. While plasma expanders are essential in critical situations, their use should be carefully monitored, as inappropriate administration can lead to complications such as fluid overload or imbalances in electrolyte levels.
In summary, a plasma expander is a specialized solution used in medicine to increase blood volume by expanding the fluid component of the blood. They play a crucial role in managing emergencies and maintaining adequate tissue perfusion to ensure vital organs receive the necessary oxygen and nutrients.
Common Misspellings for PLASMA EXPANDER
- olasma expander
- llasma expander
- 0lasma expander
- pkasma expander
- ppasma expander
- poasma expander
- plzsma expander
- plssma expander
- plwsma expander
- plqsma expander
- plaama expander
- plazma expander
- plaxma expander
- pladma expander
- plaema expander
- plawma expander
- plasna expander
- plaska expander
- plasja expander
- plasmz expander
Etymology of PLASMA EXPANDER
The word "plasma expander" is a combination of two terms: "plasma" and "expander".
1. Plasma: The term "plasma" originated from the Ancient Greek word "plasma" (πλάσμα), which means "something molded or formed". In the context of biology and physiology, plasma refers to the yellowish fluid component of blood, which contains various substances like proteins, electrolytes, hormones, and cells.
2. Expander: The word "expander" comes from the verb "expand", which is derived from the Latin word "expandere", meaning "to spread out" or "to stretch". An expander is a substance or device that increases the volume or capacity of something.
When combined, "plasma expander" refers to a substance used to increase the volume of plasma in the bloodstream.
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