Serum alpha 2-antiplasmin activity following rapid decompression from a hyperbaric environment in rabbit

Changes in serum alpha 2-antyplasmin (alpha 2-AP) in rabbits exposed to hyperbaric environment (6 ATA, 40 min.) and 5-minute decompression (1 ATA/min) were estimated. 10 male New Zealand white rabbits consisted the studied group, and 10 the control group. Blood samples were collected in rabbits from the femoral artery: once before placing the rabbit in the hyperbaric chamber, and three times after opening the chamber: just after decompression, at 10 and 20 minutes after collecting the second sample. Serum alpha 2-AP activity was measured using chromogenic substrates. Rapid decompression in rabbits exposed to hyperbaric environment at 6 ATA caused decrease in serum alpha 2-AP activity. Significant decrease in serum alpha 2-AP activity was observed at 20 min. after decompression. Serum alpha 2-AP activity can be applied in diagnostics of DCS.