Standardization of Measurement of Components of the Fibrinolytic System - Introduction and Current Status

There is compelling evidence that measurement of analytes of the fibrinolytic system may be helpful for the clinician in a number of situations. Except for measurement of plasma fibrin d-dimer such quantities have not been widespread introduced in the clinical laboratory. One main reason for this is a documented large method and interlaboratory variation for specific analytes. This manuscript describes historical aspects and the current status of standardization with respect to measurement of fibrinolytic quantities. Also, it describes recent initiatives taken within the framework of International Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) and the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry (IFCC) to promote standardization within the field of fibrinolysis (and coagulation).