Summary Easy guide to plasma and serum for MLS students

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PLASMA AND SERUM

Plasma: Plasma is the liquid part of blood obtained using anticoagulants. It contains water,
proteins, electrolytes, hormones, and clotting factors (e.g., fibrinogen). It appears pale yellow.

Serum: Serum is the liquid portion of blood obtained after blood has been allowed to clot and then
centrifuged. It is similar to plasma but lacks clotting factors and is commonly used in biochemical
tests.

Differences Between Plasma and Serum

Anticoagulant: Plasma (Present) | Serum (Absent)

Clotting factors: Plasma (Present) | Serum (Absent)

Fibrinogen: Plasma (Present) | Serum (Absent)

Use: Plasma (Coagulation tests) | Serum (Biochemistry, Serology)

Appearance: Plasma (Slightly cloudy) | Serum (Clear)

Similarities

• Both are liquid components of blood

• Both contain proteins, electrolytes, and hormones

• Both are used in laboratory analysis

Clinical Significance

• Plasma is used for coagulation studies (e.g., PT, APTT)

• Serum is used in diagnostic tests like liver function tests, kidney function tests, and serology