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- Colloids |
Dextran 40:
Molecular weight of 40,000. A synthetic colloid made with big giant glucose polysaccharides. A very strong volume expander, it is given to rapidly increase plasma volume, remove interstitial edema, AND to prevent the formation of microthrombi. It does the latter by decreasing the adhesiveness of platelets. Cool, huh… The downside is its potential effects on the kidneys. It alters urine specific gravity and osmolality, and can cause osmotically induced ATN and nephrosis. 70% of it is excreted unchanged in the urine. Being synthetic, it is also more antigenic than other natural colloids.
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