dextran

dextran /dex·tran/ (dek´stran) a high-molecular-weight polymer of d-glucose, produced by enzymes on the cell surface of certain lactic acid bacteria. Dextrans formed from sucrose by bacteria in the mouth adhere to the tooth surfaces and produce dental plaque. Uniform molecular weight dextrans from Leuconostoc mesenteroides preparations are used as plasma volume expanders, with specific preparations named for their average molecular weight.

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dex·tran (dkstrn, -strn)

n.

Any of a group of long-chain polymers of glucose with various molecular weights that are used in isotonic sodium chloride solution for the treatment of shock, in distilled water for the relief of the edema of nephrosis, and as plasma volume expanders.

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dextran (dek´stran),

n (C₆H₁₀O₅) a water-soluble polymer of glucose of high molecular weight. A purified form, having an average molecular weight of 75,000, is used in a 6% concentration in isotonic sodium chloride solution to expand plasma volume and maintain blood pressure in emergency treatment of hemorrhagic and traumatic shock.

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dextran

a water-soluble polysaccharide of glucose (dextrose) produced by the action of Leuconostoc mesenteroides on sucrose; used as a plasma volume extender. Several preparations of dextran are used as anticoagulants.

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dextran 40

used as an adjuvant in blood transfusion, an anticoagulant.

dextran sulfate

used as an anticoagulant and recently investigated for its antiviral activity.

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dextran

Transfusion medicine Dextran-40, dextran-70, dextran-1 A colloid-type volume expander consisting of a large glycogen-like molecules which may occasionally be used in surgical blood management by hemodilution; these substances have the desired properties of being viscid, and gelatinous, resulting in oncotic pressure to retain fluids in vessels; they are widely used as replacement fluids and volume expanders Pros ↓ Allogeneic transfusions, ↓ postoperative bleeding, ↓ blood viscosity Cons Interferes with platelet and RBC function, crossmatching; may cause anaphylaxis and peripheral edema. See Colloid solutions, Crystalloids, Hemodilution, Surgical blood management.