The FDA has recently approved the use of so-called “convalescent plasma” for the treatment of those seriously ill with a COVID-19 infection. This means patients in the hospital, and usually, those requiring intensive care. We know that about 20% of those infected with COVID-19 will require some higher level of care, which usually means hospitalization, and of this group, a percentage will require intensive care, ventilator support, and other supportive measures for potential heart and kidney complications. Treatments for this severely affected group are just starting to be defined. The most recently used drugs in the national news are Remdesivir and dexamethasone. However, the use of plasma from patients who have already recovered from a COVID-19 infection also presents some promise for the severely ill. Over 70% of patients contracting COVID-19 recover, which means there is a potentially large supply of plasma from these recovered patients which could be used for treatment. The FDA has asked that individuals that have recovered from a proven COVID-19 infection consider donating plasma, which contains levels of antibodies against the virus. Organizations like the American Red Cross, and others, use a method called plasma apheresis to separate your plasma from the red blood cells in your blood. These organizations are able to test your plasma for COVID-19 antibodies. There are many technical aspects to safety and efficacy when using convalescent plasma but it is a method that has been used in the past and maybe helpful now.
2020-08-07T14:12:00+00:00
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