What does fresh frozen plasma (FFP) contain?

Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is a blood product derived from the liquid portion of whole blood and is specifically processed to preserve its content of essential components necessary for coagulation. FFP contains a variety of coagulation factors, such as fibrinogen, prothrombin, and factors V, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, and XII, among others. It also contains proteins that are important for maintaining osmotic pressure and transporting various substances in the blood, including albumin and immunoglobulins.

The preservation of these proteins and factors is critical for the treatment of conditions such as coagulation factor deficiencies, liver disease, and massive transfusion protocols. When FFP is thawed and administered, it effectively contributes to the restoration of normal hemostatic function, making it a vital component in blood transfusion medicine and emergency care settings.