Plasma volume changes with movement to supine and standing positions

Abstract

The chronology of hemoconcentration and hemodilution associated with changes in posture, and the reliability of venous hematocrit (Hct), hemoglobin (Hb), and plasma proteins (PP) as indicators in evaluating changes in plasma volume were determined in seven male subjects. Red cell mass was also measured by the CO method at the termination of the erect and supine positions. Movement to and from supine and erect positions produced consistent, rapid, and progressive changes in Hct, Hb, and PP. Thirty-five minutes in a supine position resulted in a 440-ml expansion of plasma volume. Resumption of the standing position resulted in an increase of 10.3 and 10.8% for Hct and Hb, respectively, and an increase in PP of 20.8%. A fluid efflux of 593 ml reduced blood and plasma volume by 9.5 and 16.2%, respectively. Red cell mass was unaffected by changes in posture. The significance of these postures on the reported alterations in plasma volumes consequent to the imposition of stresses on man are discussed.