Fibrinolytic disorders

Fibrinolytic Disorders are a group of conditions characterized by an abnormality in the body's fibrinolysis system, which is responsible for breaking down blood clots. These disorders can lead to either excessive bleeding or excessive clotting, depending on whether the fibrinolysis system is overactive or underactive.

Overview

The fibrinolysis system is a complex process that involves several proteins and enzymes, including plasmin and plasminogen. In a healthy individual, this system maintains a balance between clot formation and clot breakdown. However, in individuals with fibrinolytic disorders, this balance is disrupted, leading to either thrombosis (excessive clotting) or hemorrhage (excessive bleeding).

Types of Fibrinolytic Disorders

There are several types of fibrinolytic disorders, including:

• Hypofibrinolysis: This condition is characterized by a reduced ability to break down clots, leading to an increased risk of thrombosis.
• Hyperfibrinolysis: This condition is characterized by an increased ability to break down clots, leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
• Dysfibrinogenemia: This condition is characterized by the production of abnormal fibrinogen, a protein that plays a key role in clot formation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of fibrinolytic disorders typically involves blood tests to measure the levels of various proteins and enzymes involved in the fibrinolysis system. Additional tests may be performed to determine the specific type of fibrinolytic disorder.

Treatment

Treatment for fibrinolytic disorders depends on the specific type of disorder and the severity of symptoms. Treatment options may include anticoagulant therapy, fibrinolytic therapy, or surgery in severe cases.

See Also

• Coagulation
• Hemostasis
• Thrombosis
• Hemorrhage