Blood plasma volume

Blood plasma volume is the total volume of the liquid, cell-free component of blood (plasma) present in the circulatory system, typically comprising about 55% of total blood volume in adults. Plasma is mostly water, with dissolved proteins, electrolytes, hormones, and waste products, supporting the transport of nutrients, maintaining blood pressure, carrying proteins and clotting factors, and mediating immune defense. Blood plasma volume is a physiological variable that reflects the fluid status of an individual and is important in clinical assessment and management of conditions such as shock, heart failure, and dehydration. It is measured using tracer dilution techniques. Key point: Blood plasma volume is *not* a molecular target, receptor, or single molecule but rather a quantitative physiological measurement. It should not be listed as a canonical drug target for molecular pharmacology or drug discovery purposes.

Other names

Plasma volume