Better levels of factor VIII are achieved by infusion of:
**Core Concept**
Factor VIII is a critical clotting factor in the intrinsic pathway of blood coagulation. Deficiencies in factor VIII lead to hemophilia A, a bleeding disorder characterized by prolonged bleeding after injuries or spontaneous bleeding into joints and muscles.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is recombinant factor VIII concentrates, which are produced through genetic engineering techniques. These concentrates contain high levels of functional factor VIII, allowing for effective treatment of hemophilia A. The recombinant factor VIII is produced in cell lines such as Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, where the factor VIII gene is inserted and expressed. This process ensures a consistent supply of factor VIII with minimal risk of contamination or immune system reactions.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is a source of multiple clotting factors, but it contains only a small fraction of factor VIII. FFP is often used in emergency situations where multiple clotting factors are required, but it is not the best option for achieving better levels of factor VIII.
**Option B:** Cryoprecipitate is a concentrated source of factor VIII and fibrinogen, but it can be contaminated with other clotting factors and viruses. While cryoprecipitate can be effective, recombinant factor VIII concentrates are generally safer and more reliable.
**Option C:** Plasma-derived factor VIII concentrates are made from human plasma and are effective, but they can be contaminated with viruses and other pathogens. Recombinant factor VIII concentrates are generally preferred due to their lower risk of infection.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Recombinant factor VIII concentrates have revolutionized the treatment of hemophilia A, allowing for better control of bleeding and improved quality of life for patients.
**Correct Answer:** C. Plasma-derived factor VIII concentrates.