Blood colloidal osmotic pressure (BCOP)

Definition

Blood colloidal osmotic pressure (BCOP) is the force exerted by plasma proteins, primarily albumin, that pulls water into the bloodstream from the interstitial fluid and tissues through osmosis. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of fluid between blood vessels and body tissues, preventing excessive fluid loss from the capillaries.

Related terms

Albumin:

The main protein in blood plasma that contributes to maintaining osmotic pressure and transporting substances.

Osmosis:

The movement of water molecules through a semipermeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.

Capillary exchange: The process by which nutrients, gases, and wastes are exchanged between blood and tissue cells via capillary walls