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[Thrombophilic factors in divers with undeserved decompression sickness]
M Candito1, M Chatel, E Candito
1Inserm U145 et Laboratoire de Biochimie, Hôpital Pasteur, 30, avenue de la Voie-Romaine, 06002 Nice cedex 01, France. candito.m@chu-nice.fr
Pathologie-Biologie
|April 1, 2006
Summary
Thrombophilic risk factors were investigated in divers with vascular disease and decompression sickness. Many divers showed increased homocysteine and decreased folate/B12, indicating a predisposition for vascular issues.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Diving Medicine
- Genetics
Background:
- Decompression sickness (DCS) can lead to vascular disease in divers.
- Investigating thrombophilic risk factors is crucial for understanding DCS-related vascular complications.
- This study focuses on divers without technical diving errors to isolate other contributing factors.
Observation:
- Six divers with vascular disease and DCS, despite no technical errors, were evaluated.
- Screening included thrombophilia assays (Proteins C, S, Antithrombin III, Factor VIII), antibody testing, Factor V Leiden, and Factor II G20210A mutation analysis.
- Plasma homocysteine (Hcy) levels, folate, vitamins B12 and B6, and MTHFR C677T gene mutation were assessed.
Findings:
- Five divers presented with moderately elevated Hcy levels.
- All six divers exhibited decreased folate and/or vitamin B12 levels.
- Genetic predispositions were identified: three divers had MTHFR C677T TT genotype, one had CT genotype, and one had heterozygous Factor V Leiden.
- A predisposition for vascular diseases was detected in these divers.
Implications:
- The findings suggest a link between thrombophilic factors, nutritional deficiencies, and vascular disease in divers with DCS.
- Early detection and management of these risk factors may be beneficial for divers.
- Further research into the interplay of genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors in diver health is warranted.
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