Thrombin generation in children using ThromboScreen reagent kit with ST Genesia-A pilot study

Area of Science:

• Hemostasis and Thrombosis Research
• Pediatric Coagulation Diagnostics

Background:

• Thrombin generation assays are crucial for assessing coagulation but require standardization and clinical validation.
• The ST Genesia analyzer and ThromboScreen reagent kit offer a standardized approach, including thrombomodulin for protein C pathway assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a pilot reference range for the ThromboScreen assay in children.
• To investigate the influence of sex, age, and plasma proteins on thrombin generation parameters in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

• Studied 55 healthy children aged 1-17 years, excluding those under one year.
• Utilized the ThromboScreen assay on the ST Genesia analyzer to measure thrombin generation.
• Assessed coagulation routine tests and pro- and anticoagulant proteins.

Main Results:

• ThromboScreen results were not significantly influenced by age in children over one year old.
• Males exhibited significantly lower endogenous thrombin potential and peak height compared to females.
• Von Willebrand factor parameters were key determinants of endogenous thrombin potential, while Protein C and S influenced its inhibition.

Conclusions:

• Age-based subdivision of reference ranges for the ThromboScreen assay is likely unnecessary for children older than one year.
• Sex is a significant factor influencing thrombin generation parameters in children.