Breakthrough to help Costa Rica produce blood plasma

The Clodomiro Picado Institute in Coronado, northeast of San José, has developed technology that will permit it to produce blood plasma derivatives, which are necessary in various medical procedures.

Costa Rica currently imports blood plasma, and according to the institute’s director, Yamileth Angulo, the breakthrough here will allow the country to save $3 million a year, the daily La Nación reported.

Institute researchers have produced antibodies that can be used to treat autoimmune diseases or to help in bone marrow transplants. The technology can also create blood derivatives that help in the treatment of burns, dehydration, malnutrition and hepatitis.

The institute is negotiating with Costa Rica’s Social Security System (Caja) on an agreement that will allow the Caja to use the plasma for patients.