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Increased plasma plasminogen activator inhibitor activity after coronary spasm
International Journal of Cardiology
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Coronary artery spasm during variant angina increases plasminogen activator inhibitor activity, potentially leading to blood clot formation. This study investigated changes in fibrinolytic activity during ischemic attacks.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Biology
- Hemostasis
Background:
- Coronary artery spasm is a significant cause of myocardial ischemia.
- Fibrinolytic activity plays a crucial role in preventing thrombosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of coronary artery spasm-induced ischemia on fibrinolytic activity.
- To determine if changes in plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI) and tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) levels occur during variant angina attacks.
Main Methods:
- Assessed plasma levels of t-PA antigen and PAI activity in patients with variant angina and healthy controls.
- Induced ischemic attacks using a hyperventilation test.
- Measured biomarkers before and at intervals after the induced attacks.
Main Results:
- Patients with variant angina showed a significant increase in PAI activity 15 minutes post-ischemic attack (P < 0.01).
- No significant changes in PAI activity were observed in control subjects.
- Plasma t-PA antigen levels remained unchanged in both groups.
Conclusions:
- Coronary artery spasm elevates plasma PAI activity.
- Increased PAI activity following coronary spasm may contribute to coronary thrombus formation.