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Streptokinase and reduced plasma viscosity: a second benefit.
A J Moriarty1, R Hughes, S D Nelson
1Craigavon Area Hospital, Northern Ireland.
European Journal of Haematology
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Systemic streptokinase (STK) therapy in acute myocardial infarction patients significantly reduced plasma viscosity, unlike in a control group. This viscosity reduction may improve microvascular circulation and reduce cardiac workload.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Hematology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a critical condition often associated with increased plasma viscosity.
- Elevated plasma viscosity can impair microvascular blood flow and increase myocardial oxygen demand.
- Fibrinogen is a key determinant of plasma viscosity and an acute-phase reactant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of systemic streptokinase (STK) thrombolytic therapy on plasma viscosity in AMI patients.
- To assess the correlation between plasma viscosity changes and fibrinogen levels during STK treatment.
- To compare these changes with a control group not receiving thrombolytic therapy.
Main Methods:
- Pilot study involving a small cohort (n=13) of AMI patients receiving STK.
- Comparison with a similar control group.
- Serial blood studies measuring plasma viscosity and fibrinogen over 6 days.
Main Results:
- STK treatment group showed a maximum plasma viscosity reduction of 17% within 24 hours, sustained for 6 days.
- Control group exhibited a maximum plasma viscosity increase of 19%, paralleling fibrinogen rise.
- Strong positive correlation (r=0.74 and r=0.66) observed between plasma viscosity and fibrinogen in both groups.
Conclusions:
- Systemic STK therapy effectively reduces plasma viscosity in AMI patients.
- Reduced plasma viscosity may contribute to improved microvascular circulation and decreased myocardial workload.
- Fibrinogen depletion is a significant factor in STK-induced viscosity reduction.