Evaluation of hematologic and coagulation changes associated with hyperfibrinolysis in feline acute trauma

Objectives: This study investigates the hypothesis that hyperfibrinolysis may occur in cats with acute trauma, leading to alterations in hematological, biochemical, and coagulation parameters, particularly in severe cases. The aim is to assess these parameters (aPTT, PT, fibrinogen, and D-dimer) in traumatized cats and to examine their association with trauma severity and prognosis. Materials and Methods: This study involved 35 acutely traumatized and 11 healthy cats. Trauma severity was quantified using the ATT (Multiple Trauma Triage Scoring System). For hematological, biochemical, and coagulation analyses, 2 ml of blood was drawn from a venous vein and processed within 15 to 30 min of collection. Results: Traumatized cats exhibited significantly elevated CPK and WBC counts, alongside significantly reduced HCT and RBC counts (p < 0.05). Fibrinogen concentrations were significantly decreased. D-dimer levels and ATT scores were significantly increased in the trauma group (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between groups for PT, aPTT, TT, platelet count, or lactate levels (p > 0.05). Non-survivors had significantly higher lactate levels and lower pH, base excess (BE), and body temperature (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study demonstrated that ATT, lactate, pH, BE, and body temperature are effective predictors of both trauma severity and clinical prognosis in cats with acute trauma. Fibrin degradation products formed during this process are thought to contribute to elevated D-dimer levels, indicating the development of hyperfibrinolysis.