Colloid Osmotic Pressure (Dextran Effect)

Colloid osmotic pressure, specifically the dextran effect, refers to the increase in intravascular oncotic pressure induced by intravenous administration of dextran, a high-molecular-weight polysaccharide. This effect is utilized clinically to expand blood volume in cases of hypovolemia, hemorrhage, or shock by drawing fluid from the interstitial space into the bloodstream. The magnitude and duration of the effect depend on the molecular weight and concentration of the dextran solution used.

Other names

Oncotic Pressure (Dextran)Dextran-induced Volume Expansion

Increases intravascular colloid osmotic pressure, drawing fluid from the interstitial space into the vasculature, resulting in blood volume expansion.