Rotation thromboelastography (ROTEM) parameters are influenced by age, gender, and oral contraception

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Clinical Chemistry

Background:

• Rotation thromboelastography (ROTEM) is a rapid diagnostic tool for hemostatic abnormalities.
• Establishing accurate reference values is crucial for efficient ROTEM utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the influence of gender, age, and oral contraception on ROTEM parameters.
• To establish the need for adjusted reference values in ROTEM analysis.

Main Methods:

• Examined five healthy subject cohorts using ROTEM with extrinsic, intrinsic, or recalcification activation.
• Cohorts included males (<45 and >45 years), females (<45 years with/without oral contraception), and females (>45 years).

Main Results:

• Significant variations in ROTEM parameters were observed based on gender.
• Age was found to significantly impact ROTEM results.
• Oral contraception use in females demonstrably altered ROTEM parameter values.

Conclusions:

• Gender, age, and oral contraception significantly affect ROTEM measurements.
• Adjusted reference ranges for ROTEM are necessary for accurate hemostasis screening.
• ROTEM analysis requires consideration of demographic factors for clinical interpretation.