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Which factors affect high D-dimer levels in the elderly?
K Kario1, T Matsuo, H Kobayashi
1Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo Prefectural Awaji Hospital Sumoto Japan.
Thrombosis Research
|June 1, 1991
Summary
Elderly individuals show higher plasma D-dimer levels, indicating increased coagulation and fibrinolysis. Atherosclerotic disease and long-term immobilization further elevate these markers in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Hematology
- Cardiovascular Disease
Background:
- Aging is associated with complex physiological changes, including alterations in hemostasis.
- Understanding age-related changes in coagulation and fibrinolysis is crucial for managing health in the elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-related changes in plasma D-dimer levels in the elderly.
- To assess the impact of atherosclerotic disease and long-term immobilization on hemostasis in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Plasma D-dimer levels were measured using ELISA in 148 subjects aged 60-94 years.
- Additional measurements included plasma fibrinogen, serum uric acid, lipids, and apolipoproteins.
- Comparison groups included healthy elderly subjects, younger controls, and elderly individuals with atherosclerotic disease or long-term immobilization.
Main Results:
- Healthy elderly subjects had significantly higher D-dimer levels than younger controls, with levels increasing with age.
- Elderly women exhibited higher D-dimer levels than elderly men.
- D-dimer levels correlated with fibrinogen and apolipoprotein E, and were significantly elevated in subjects with atherosclerotic disease and further increased in those with long-term immobilization.
Conclusions:
- Coagulation and fibrinolysis are hyperactive in the elderly.
- Atherosclerotic disease exacerbates this hyperactivity.
- Long-term immobilization further accelerates hemostatic hyperactivity in the elderly, independent of age, sex, or underlying conditions.