Coagulation activation in liver diseases
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Updated: Oct 21, 2026

Measurement of Factor V Activity in Human Plasma Using a Microplate Coagulation Assay
Published on: September 9, 2012
B Kemkes-Matthes1, H Bleyl, K J Matthes
1Zentrum für Innere Medizin, Universität Giessen, Germany.
Abstract:
In liver disorders alterations of the coagulation system are mainly due to a reduced synthesis of coagulation proteins. In addition, an enhanced intravascular consumption of coagulation factors is discussed controversely in liver diseases. By measuring factor IXiAT- and TAT-complexes we tried to find out, whether coagulation activation in liver patients leads to activation of the complete coagulation cascade followed by DIC or whether in some diseases a futile partial coagulation activation develops. In all liver diseases examined, elevated factor IXiAT-complexes were demonstrated, while TAT-complexes were only elevated in chronic active hepatitis, metabolic decompensated liver cirrhosis and in patients suffering from end stage liver disease. We conclude that all liver diseases examined lead to an activation of the coagulation cascade. A complete activation followed by DIC only occurs in patients with very severe liver disorders.
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