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Measurement of Factor V Activity in Human Plasma Using a Microplate Coagulation Assay
Published on: September 9, 2012
Syndromes of thrombosis and hypercoagulability. Congenital and acquired causes of thrombosis
1Department of Medicine (Hematology/Oncology), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75231, USA.
Insights
Blood protein and platelet defects cause most unexplained thrombosis. Identifying these defects guides treatment and prevents future clotting events in patients and families.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Vascular Medicine
- Genetics
Background:
- Unexplained venous thrombosis and arterial thrombotic/ischemic events are common.
- Blood coagulation protein and platelet defects are significant underlying causes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize common and uncommon blood protein and platelet defects.
- To guide the suspicion and investigation of these defects in patients with thrombotic events.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on blood coagulation and platelet disorders.
- Analysis of the etiological contribution of these defects to thrombotic events.
Main Results:
- Blood coagulation protein and platelet defects account for up to 90% of unexplained venous thrombosis.
- These defects are responsible for up to 70% of unexplained arterial thrombotic or ischemic events.
Conclusions:
- Defining specific defects is crucial for effective secondary prevention strategies.
- Identification impacts antithrombotic therapy duration and primary prevention in families with hereditary defects.
Abstract:
Blood coagulation protein and platelet defects are now known to account for up to ninety percent of unexplained venous thrombosis and up to seventy percent of unexplained arterial thrombotic or ischemic events. This article summarizes the common and uncommon blood protein and platelet defects which should be suspected, and searched for, in patients with such events. Defining such defects will have major impact on secondary prevention and duration of antithrombotic therapy in the afflicted patient and impact on primary prevention for identified family members in those harboring hereditary defects.
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