Positive aspects, negative aspects and limitations of plasma therapy with special reference to COVID-19

Abstract

The principle of plasma therapy can be used for prophylaxis and treatment purpose. In view of non-availability of suitable vaccine for prevention or no established definitive therapy for SARS-CoV-2, plasma therapy is gaining importance in a current pandemic as one of the treatment options for the treatment of COVID-19. Although, it has been reported to be an effective approach in various preliminary studies, convalescent plasma (CP) therapy has several limitations. In this mini review, an attempt has been made to review positive aspects, negative aspects and various limitations of the CP therapy for COVID-19 cases. The results of various studies show that CP therapy may be thought of one of the alternatives but while considering it as a therapeutic approach, in light of beneficial effects, the negative aspects and limitations are to be taken into consideration before its administration as a therapeutic agent.

Keywords

• COVID-19
• Convalescent plasma
• Positive aspects
• Negative aspects
• Limitations