Plasma is the liquid portion of the blood in which the red blood cells are dispersed to the rest of the body. Plasma, when separated from the rest of the blood, is light yellow in color and it carries the antibodies needed for medicines such as Rho(D) Immune Globulin and blood typing reagents.
Rare blood products are used by the medical community for the manufacturing of medicines, such as that used to prevent Rh Disease of the Newborn, as well as blood typing reagents needed for determining blood types and compatibility prior to a blood transfusion. Currently, there is a shortage of committed donors who can help save lives.
An antibody, also known as Immunoglobulin, is a protein found in the blood. These proteins identify and work to destroy toxins in the body so that they cannot make the body sick. Every typical, healthy person has antibodies which have occurred naturally, or in response to, an exposure to an infection or foreign body. These antibodies, which are collected by Kamada Plasma, are needed for the production of lifesaving medications.
The first donation typically takes about two hours. A preliminary health screening is performed. A physical is required prior to the first donation, and annually thereafter, to ensure the health of the donor and that of the recipient. The donation is collected by an automated plasmapheresis machine approved by the FDA where the blood is drawn, the plasma is separated from the red blood cells, and the red blood cells are returned to the donor. There are usually little to no side effects in donating.
Being a plasma donor requires a commitment and desire to help others. At Kamada Plasma, every donation is valued. Once a prospective donor becomes eligible, the donor is compensated for their time spent donating. The amount of compensation depends on program eligibility.
The Food and Drug Administration sets the guidelines for frequency of donations. Two donations are allowed in a seven-day period, with at least 48 hours between donations.
Human blood is grouped by two systems. The first grouping is the A, B, and O system. The second most important grouping system is Rhesus factor, or Rh(D). Rhesus (Rh) factor is a protein located on the surface of red blood cells and determines if the donor’s blood has a positive or negative Rh factor. If a donor’s red blood cells have this protein, he is Rh-positive. If his blood does not have the protein, he is Rh-negative. Most people have the Rhesus factor and, therefore, have an Rh-positive blood type. Having Rh-negative blood is not an illness and usually has no effect on your health. However, it can affect an expectant mother’s baby during pregnancy. If you have an Rh-negative blood type, you could help save babies!
