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Published on: June 4, 2020
The fibrinogen functional turbidimetric assay
1Department of Clinical Chemistry, Central Laboratory, University Hospital, Marburg, Germany. thstief@med.uni-marburg.de
Summary
A new fibrinogen functional assay mimics clotting plasma, offering accurate measurements independent of albumin or heparin. This method aids in diagnosing disseminated intravascular coagulation and assessing atherothrombotic risk.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Chemistry
- Hematology
Background:
- Traditional fibrinogen assays lack physiological relevance.
- Existing methods are influenced by plasma protein levels and heparin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel functional turbidimetric fibrinogen assay.
- To improve diagnostic accuracy for fibrinogen activity in various clinical conditions.
Main Methods:
- A turbidimetric assay using citrated plasma, thrombin, polybrene, and albumin.
- Measurement of absorbance change at 405 nm to quantify fibrinogen activity.
- Assay validation for accuracy, precision, and detection limits.
Main Results:
- The assay accurately measures fibrinogen activity from 7% to 300% of normal.
- Inclusion of 6% albumin prevents falsely elevated results in hypoproteinemic samples.
- Demonstrated low coefficient of variations (<4%) and a normal range of 100% ± 20%.
Conclusions:
- This functional assay accurately reflects fibrinogen to fibrin conversion in plasma.
- It is independent of albumin and heparin, suitable for diverse clinical settings.
- The assay has diagnostic value for disseminated intravascular coagulation and atherothrombotic risk assessment.
