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Heparin cofactor II deficiency in the elderly: comparison with antithrombin III
K Kario1, T Matsuo, H Kobayashi
1Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo Prefectural Awaji Hospital, Sumoto, Japan.
Thrombosis Research
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Heparin cofactor II (HC II) levels decline with age in the elderly, more so than antithrombin III (AT III). Malnutrition further reduces HC II, potentially increasing thrombosis risk in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Hematology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Heparin cofactor II (HC II) and antithrombin III (AT III) are key inhibitors of thrombin generation.
- Age-related changes in haemostatic factors can influence thrombosis risk.
- Nutritional status may impact coagulation factor levels in the elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate heparin cofactor II (HC II) levels in the elderly.
- To compare HC II levels with antithrombin III (AT III) and other haemostatic factors.
- To assess the influence of age, sex, and nutritional status on HC II levels.
Main Methods:
- Plasma HC II activity was measured using a chromogenic method in 166 elderly subjects (61-99 years) and 40 younger adults.
- Correlation analyses were performed between HC II, AT III, acute phase reactants, and other clinical parameters.
- Subjects were grouped based on nutritional status (using pseudocholinesterase and albumin levels) to evaluate its effect on antithrombin activity.
Main Results:
- Elderly subjects had significantly lower HC II levels than younger adults (94.4% vs 111.6%).
- HC II levels decreased with age and were more strongly correlated with acute phase reactants than AT III levels.
- Malnourished elderly individuals exhibited significantly lower HC II levels compared to well-nourished counterparts.
Conclusions:
- Age and malnutrition contribute to reduced HC II levels in the elderly.
- Lower HC II and AT III levels in the elderly may predispose to thrombosis, particularly in malnourished individuals.
- Clinical assessment of HC II should consider age, nutritional status, and acute phase reactant levels.
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