cryoprecitate

Cryoprecipitate is a blood-derived plasma product prepared from donor plasma by a process of freezing and controlled thawing to concentrate certain coagulation proteins. It is rich in fibrinogen (factor I), factor VIII, factor XIII, von Willebrand factor, and fibronectin, with smaller amounts of other clotting factors. It is used to provide fibrinogen and other factors quickly in bleeding patients when specific concentrates are not available or feasible.

Production and use: Cryoprecipitate is created from plasma by thawing at cold temperatures and collecting the precipitated proteins, which are then refrozen and stored frozen until needed. For transfusion, the product is thawed and administered intravenously. ABO compatibility is preferred, and standard transfusion safety practices apply, including infection screening and donor testing.

Indications: It is primarily indicated for hypofibrinogenemia or dysfibrinogenemia with bleeding, during massive transfusion to maintain fibrinogen levels, and in congenital fibrinogen deficiency. It may be used in certain cases of disseminated intravascular coagulation when fibrinogen is depleted. In von Willebrand disease or hemophilia A, more specific concentrates or desmopressin are often preferred if available; cryoprecipitate is used when other products are not accessible or as part of complex coagulopathy management.

Administration and safety: Dosing is guided by laboratory fibrinogen levels and clinical bleeding. A typical unit provides about 150–250 mg of fibrinogen and is given by intravenous infusion, with monitoring for transfusion reactions and coagulation response. Safety considerations include risks of transfusion reactions, alloimmunization, and infectious disease transmission. Storage involves freezing at -18°C or colder; after thawing, use promptly according to local guidelines.