Age-related reference values for activation markers of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems in children

M Ries1, J Klinge, R Rauch

  • 1Klinik mit Poliklinik für Kinder und Jugendliche, Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany.

Thrombosis Research
|February 15, 1997
PubMed

Insights

This study established reference ranges for key hemostasis activation markers in healthy children. Findings reveal age-related differences, crucial for interpreting coagulation and fibrinolysis in pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Hematology
  • Hemostasis and Thrombosis Research
  • Clinical Biochemistry

Background:

  • Pediatric hemostasis differs from adult physiology, yet risks for bleeding or clotting are not elevated in children.
  • Biochemical advancements allow sensitive measurement of coagulation and fibrinolysis activation markers in vivo.
  • Previous studies measured these markers in children with disorders, but lacked age-specific reference ranges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To establish reference ranges for thrombin-antithrombin III-complex (TAT), prothrombin fragment 1 + 2 (F1 + 2), plasmin-alpha 2-antiplasmin-complex (PAP), and D-dimer in healthy children.
  • To investigate potential age-related differences in these hemostatic activation markers within the pediatric population.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study involving healthy children across various age groups.
  • Measurement of specific activation markers: TAT, F1 + 2, PAP, and D-dimer using sensitive immunochemical methods.
  • Statistical analysis to determine reference ranges and identify age-dependent variations.

Main Results:

  • Reference ranges for TAT, F1 + 2, PAP, and D-dimer were documented for healthy children.
  • Significant age-related differences were observed for these markers, indicating developmental changes in hemostasis.
  • Established ranges provide a baseline for comparison in pediatric clinical settings.

Conclusions:

  • Age-specific reference ranges for key hemostatic activation markers in children have been successfully established.
  • These findings highlight the dynamic nature of coagulation and fibrinolysis throughout childhood.
  • The documented ranges are essential for accurate clinical interpretation and management of hemostatic disorders in pediatric patients.

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