Cryoprecipitate transfusion: current perspectives

Abstract

Cryoprecipitate is prepared by controlled thawing of frozen plasma and is a rich source of fibrinogen, FVIII, von Willebrand factor, Factor XIII, and fibronectin. It is mainly transfused in Western countries as a concentrated source of fibrinogen replacement for acquired hypofibrinogenemia. During major bleeding, fibrinogen is the first clotting protein to be depleted to critically low levels. Increasing recognition of the importance of maintaining fibrinogen levels in bleeding has led to significant interest in appropriate fibrinogen supplementation. This review presents an overview of the indications, use and evidence for cryoprecipitate transfusion in hemorrhage, how it may promote hemostasis, and recent developments in extended thaw cryoprecipitate.