Plasma vs. Serum: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 17, 2023
Plasma is the liquid component of blood with clotting factors, while serum is the liquid portion of blood after clotting, lacking these factors.
Key Differences
Plasma is the yellowish liquid component of blood that constitutes about 55% of its volume. It contains water, electrolytes, proteins, hormones, and waste products. Serum, on the other hand, is the clear liquid that remains after the blood has clotted, thus being devoid of clotting factors found in plasma.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
When blood is drawn and anticoagulants are added, it prevents the blood from clotting, resulting in plasma upon centrifugation. Serum, conversely, is obtained by allowing the blood to clot first and then subjecting it to centrifugation, separating it from the clot.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Both plasma and serum are used for diagnostic purposes, though their applications vary based on their composition. Since plasma contains clotting factors, it's often used in tests that evaluate coagulation pathways. Serum, being free of clotting factors, is typically used in serological tests and to measure certain enzyme levels.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
From a clinical perspective, understanding the distinction between plasma and serum is essential. While both provide valuable information about a patient's health status, the absence or presence of clotting factors can influence the outcomes and interpretations of various laboratory tests.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Comparison Chart
Definition
Liquid component of blood with clotting factors.
Liquid portion of blood after clotting.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
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Contains
Clotting factors, proteins, electrolytes, hormones.
Lacks clotting factors.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Obtained from
Blood with anticoagulants, upon centrifugation.
Clotted blood, upon centrifugation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Usage in Tests
Evaluates coagulation pathways.
Serological tests, certain enzyme measurements.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Color
Yellowish due to proteins.
Clear, since it's devoid of clotting factors.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Plasma and Serum Definitions
Plasma
The clear, extracellular fluid in body tissues.
In severe burns, patients may lose significant amounts of plasma, requiring fluid resuscitation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
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Serum
A product derived from blood used to provide immunity against diseases.
The patient received a tetanus serum after stepping on a rusty nail.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Plasma
A state of matter where atoms are ionized and electrons move freely.
The sun is composed largely of plasma, emitting light and heat.
Janet White
Oct 17, 2023
Serum
The clear, yellowish fluid that remains from blood plasma after clotting.
The lab technician extracted the serum to test for specific antibodies.
Huma Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Plasma
A type of display screen used in televisions and monitors.
The plasma TV provided sharper images than older models.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Serum
A skincare product with a high concentration of active ingredients.
She applied the serum every night for better skin hydration.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
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Plasma
The liquid component of blood, containing water, proteins, and other solutes.
The donated blood was separated to retrieve the plasma for a patient in need.
Huma Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Serum
The liquid left after the removal of cells and fibrin clot.
Doctors sent the serum for diagnostic testing to identify potential infections.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Plasma
A medium or substance through which signals, particles, or currents pass.
Scientists used a plasma medium to study particle interactions.
Janet White
Oct 17, 2023
Serum
The watery portion of an animal fluid with its particles in solution.
The snake's venom serum can be dangerous if introduced into the bloodstream.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Plasma
The clear, yellowish fluid portion of blood, lymph, or intramuscular fluid in which cells are suspended. It differs from serum in that it contains fibrin and other soluble clotting elements.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 23, 2018
Serum
The clear yellowish fluid obtained upon separating whole blood into its solid and liquid components after it has been allowed to clot. Also called blood serum.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 23, 2018
Plasma
Blood plasma, especially when sterilized and depleted of cells for transfusion.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 23, 2018
Serum
Blood serum from the tissues of immunized animals, containing antibodies and used to transfer immunity to another individual.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 23, 2018
FAQs
Can plasma clot?
Yes, plasma can clot due to the presence of clotting factors.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Is serum used in coagulation tests?
No, serum lacks clotting factors, so plasma is used for such tests.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
How does serum differ from plasma?
Serum is the liquid that remains after blood clots, lacking the clotting factors present in plasma.
Huma Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Is serum in skincare the same as blood serum?
No, while both are called "serum," in skincare it refers to a product with concentrated active ingredients.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Can serum be frozen for future use?
Yes, serum can be frozen for extended storage and future testing.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
How is serum used in immunology?
Serum can be tested for the presence of antibodies, indicating immune responses to pathogens or vaccines.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Why is serum clear?
Serum is clear because it's free from the cells and clotting factors that are present in plasma.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
How is plasma obtained in the lab?
Plasma is obtained by centrifuging blood that's been treated with anticoagulants.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Is plasma only found in blood?
While commonly associated with blood, plasma also refers to ionized gases and other contexts outside of biology.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
What is plasma?
Plasma is the liquid component of blood, containing water, proteins, electrolytes, and other solutes.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
What color is plasma?
Plasma is typically yellowish due to the proteins it contains.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Does plasma contain white and red blood cells?
No, plasma is the cell-free component of blood.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Why might a doctor request a serum test?
Serum tests can measure enzyme levels, antibodies, and other factors indicative of health conditions.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Can both plasma and serum be used for the same tests?
No, the choice between plasma and serum depends on the test's specific requirements.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Why is plasma important for the body?
Plasma transports nutrients, hormones, and waste products, playing a key role in homeostasis.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Can diseases affect the composition of plasma and serum?
Yes, various diseases can alter the levels of proteins and other solutes in both plasma and serum.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
What might affect the appearance of serum?
Diet, hydration, and certain medical conditions can influence serum's appearance.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Can serum provide information about infections?
Yes, serum can contain antibodies which indicate exposure to infections.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
What's the significance of plasma donations?
Plasma donations can be used for various medical treatments and to make life-saving therapies.
Janet White
Oct 17, 2023
What is the main protein found in plasma?
Albumin is a major protein found in plasma.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
