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Reference values for rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) in clinically healthy cats.
Charlotte Marly-Voquer1, Barbara Riond2, Rahel Jud Schefer3
1Section of Anesthesiology, Equine Department, Vetsuisse Faculty of the University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
Summary
Reference intervals for feline rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) were established. Cats show similar clot strength to humans in most ROTEM assays but have weaker clot firmness in the FIBTEM test, possibly due to platelet contribution.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Hematology
- Coagulation Science
- Comparative Pathology
Background:
- Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) is a valuable tool for assessing hemostasis.
- Establishing species-specific reference intervals is crucial for accurate interpretation of coagulation tests.
- Feline coagulation parameters, particularly using ROTEM, are not well-characterized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine reference intervals for various ROTEM assays in clinically healthy cats.
- To compare feline ROTEM results with human values and standard coagulation tests.
- To investigate potential differences in clot strength and lysis between species.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving 23 healthy cats aged 1-15 years.
- Whole blood collected via standard venipuncture and analyzed using EXTEM, INTEM, FIBTEM, and APTEM ROTEM assays.
- Standard coagulation tests including prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, thrombin time, and fibrinogen concentration were also performed.
Main Results:
- Feline ROTEM reference intervals were established.
- Clinically healthy cats exhibited similar EXTEM and INTEM assay values compared to humans.
- Cats had lower plasma fibrinogen concentrations and weaker maximum clot firmness (MCF) in the FIBTEM test compared to humans.
Conclusions:
- Cats demonstrate a weaker clot in the FIBTEM test, potentially due to greater platelet contribution to clot strength compared to humans.
- Feline clot strength in other ROTEM assays is comparable to that of humans.
- Caution is advised when interpreting feline ROTEM results, particularly the APTEM test, for diagnosing hyperfibrinolysis due to potential clot retraction interference.
