Marking a major milestone for UK plasma medicines

12 months on since UK plasma was re-introduced, King’s haematology staff and the NHS Blood and Transplant team met with King’s patient Niall Whatley,  who told them why his treatment is life changing.

Niall has multiple sclerosis and relies on a regular intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) infusion to keep him well. He explained: “If I didn’t have the IVIG infusions every month, I would be in and out of hospital constantly – or probably even a lot worse than that.

“In a way, the plasma-derived medicines are a lifesaver for me and many other patients. If your immune system goes right down to where your body can’t fight off any infections, then you’re in a world of problems. If you’re lucky, you’ll survive – and if you’re not lucky, you don’t.

“Anyone that donates plasma – I want them to know that they are donating a blood component that is literally saving people’s lives. You are literally helping to keep us alive through the IVIG infusions we receive.”

Professor Roopen Arya, Clinical Director for Haematological Medicine at King’s, added: “King’s is one of the busiest NHS Trusts in terms of treating patients with plasma-derived medicines, and the past 12 months mark a real milestone in our care of vulnerable people with immune disorders.

“Thousands of patients with immune deficiencies and rare diseases, like Niall, rely on plasma for life-saving treatment, and it is also used in emergency medicine for childbirth and trauma care. We are incredibly grateful to everyone across England who has donated their plasma over this incredible first year: you have helped us save lives.”

Gerry Gogarty, Director of Blood Supply at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “One year ago, we achieved something this country had not done in a generation – getting life-saving medicines made from UK plasma into the hands of clinicians across hospitals in the UK to treat NHS patients. The progress since then has been extraordinary.

 “Over 758,000 litres of plasma collected, thousands of patients treated, and meaningful resilience built into the NHS supply chain where there was none before. But we must be honest about where we stand. At 23% self-sufficiency for immunoglobulin, we have come a long way, but we still have a significant way to go.”

NHS Blood and Transplant is calling for more donors to give blood and plasma to continue to strengthen UK resilience. Find out more here.