Apheresis - what is it?

Apheresis (pronounced ay-fur-ee-sis) is a special process by which donations of plasma only or platelet only can be made.

• As the process involves returning red cells to donors at the time of donation, plasma or platelet donations can be made more frequently – every 2-3 weeks.
• Each time you make an apheresis donation you are able to donate a larger volume meaning you have the potential to assist more people.
• While platelets or plasma can be collected from whole blood donations, the apheresis process involves collecting the platelets or plasma using a special cell separator or apheresis machine.
• The machine spins the blood to separate the platelets or plasma from the other blood components in a cell separator, and the other components are returned to the donor through another line.
• Inside the cell separator is a closed, sterile system of plastic bags and tubing that is used only once and then disposed of after use.
• The process is repeated until enough platelets or plasma is collected, which usually takes about an hour. You can sit back in comfort through the procedure and read a book or just relax.
• You are under no obligation to continue as an apheresis donor and you can return to donating whole blood at any time.

Interested in making a plasma or platelet donation?

• For full details on eligibility criteria check the FAQs.
• Find out if your nearest donor centre has facilities for plasma or platelet donations.
• Make an appointment online or call 13 95 94.