Phenotyping the haemostatic system by thrombography-potential for the estimation of thrombotic risk

The aim of this paper is to review the thrombogram and its use for phenotyping the haemostatic system. The thrombogram can be readily obtained through Calibrated Automated Thrombography (CAT), using a commercially available fluorometer, dedicated software (Thrombinoscope (R)) and a calibrator. Here we explore the possibility to use platelet-rich plasma (PRP) triggered with a low amount of recombinant human tissue factor (similar to 0.5 pM) and also explore the function of the protein C system by adding activated protein C (APC) or soluble recombinant thrombomodulin (TM). Examples are shown: inherited antithrombin (AT) and protein C deficiencies, and antiphospholipid antibodies. (c) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.