Plasma treatments using anti-serums containing antibodies have been around for over a century. They involve administering blood plasma from survivors to others still fighting the same infection. However, plasma is not a vaccine or a medication. That’s because it simply strengthens the receiving patient’s immune system. This is the basis for the University of California San Diego convalescent plasma trials.
Medical Theory Behind UC San Diego Convalescent Plasma Trials
The antibodies in the antiserum from the recovered patient bind the antigen / infectious agent of the ill one. This then triggers a response from their immune system leading to a more robust reaction. The hope is their symptoms will be less severe, and their recovery period shorter. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved this as a treatment, but is allowing investigational trials.
One such trial is taking place at University of California San Diego School of Medicine, and San Diego Health. Their convalescent therapy program infuses COVID-19 patients with antibodies from the blood of recovered ones. However, the UC San Diego convalescent plasma trials may prove most effective for people in early stages of infection.
FDA Guidelines for Conducting Convalescent Plasma Trials
1… Applications must be made to FDA using the investigational new drug application process
2… Special requests may be made on behalf of seriously ill patients unable to participate in a trial
3… Physicians may apply to bypass normal procedures in serious or life-threatening situations
4… The patient or their proxy must give their informed consent before blood plasma treatment
5… This is a departure due to the public health emergency following the COVID-19 pandemic
These exceptions may be following recognition the UC San Diego convalescent plasma trials are proceeding positively. More news will follow as it comes to hand.
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Preview Image: Machine for Blood Plasma Donations
