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Fluid loss does not explain coagulation activation during air travel
Anja J M Schreijer1, Suzanne C Cannegieter, Marianna Caramella
1Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
Thrombosis and Haemostasis
|June 4, 2008
Summary
Fluid loss does not appear to contribute to the risk of venous thrombosis during air travel. This study found no significant difference in fluid loss markers between individuals with and without coagulation activation after flights.
Area of Science:
- Medical Science
- Physiology
- Hematology
Background:
- Air travel is associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis.
- Immobility during flights is a known risk factor.
- The role of fluid loss in air travel-related thrombosis remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if fluid loss is greater in individuals with coagulation activation after air travel compared to those without.
- To determine if fluid loss occurs during air travel per se.
Main Methods:
- A crossover study involving 71 healthy volunteers.
- Exposure to 8 hours of air travel, 8 hours of cinema immobilization, and a daily-life control.
- Measurement of fluid loss markers (hematocrit, serum osmolality, albumin) and coagulation activation markers before and after each exposure.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in fluid loss markers between volunteers with and without coagulation activation during flight.
- Mean hematocrit decreased during all exposures on a group level.
- Increased hematocrit occurred in more participants during flight (34%) than during daily life (19%).
Conclusions:
- The study does not support the hypothesis that fluid loss contributes to thrombus formation during air travel.
- While fluid loss markers did not differ between groups, individual hematocrit changes varied.
- Further research may be needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of air travel-related venous thrombosis.
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