Glomerular capillary thrombosis and acute renal failure after epsilon-amino caproic acid therapy

How We Interpret Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome?

Platelets play an important role in hemostasis, and a low platelet count usually increases the risk of bleeding. Conditions in which thrombosis occurs despite low platelet counts are referred to as thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome, including heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, antiphospholipid syndrome, thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), and disseminated intravascular coagulation. TMA includes thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli-associated hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), and atypical HUS. Patients with these pathologies present with thrombosis and consumptive thrombocytopenia associated with the activation of platelets and the coagulation system. Treatment varies from disease to disease, and many diseases have direct impacts on mortality and organ prognosis if therapeutic interventions are not promptly implemented. Underlying diseases and the results of physical examinations and general laboratory tests as part of a thorough workup for patients should promptly lead to therapeutic intervention before definitive diagnosis. For some diseases, the diagnosis and initial treatment must proceed in parallel. Utilization of not only laboratory tests but also various scoring systems is important for validating therapeutic interventions based on clinical information.

Effect of Anticoagulant/Antifibrinolytic Combination Therapy on Enhanced Fibrinolytic-Type Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in End-of-Life Stage Solid Tumor Patients

Thrombotic disorders such as venous thromboembolism and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) are known complications of solid tumors. To date, no reports have described the treatment of enhanced fibrinolytic-type DIC caused by end-of-life stage solid tumors. We encountered three cases of end-of-life stage solid tumors complicated by enhanced fibrinolytic-type DIC with severe bleeding symptoms. In all three cases, bleeding symptoms improved dramatically after intervention for enhanced fibrinolytic-type DIC with heparin(s) and tranexamic acid. Improvements in abnormal coagulation test results were also seen and the need for platelet concentrate transfusion and fresh frozen plasma infusion was able to be eliminated. However, one patient developed multiple cerebral infarctions. In the future, further studies to investigate the need for intervention in enhanced fibrinolytic-type DIC caused by end-of-life stage solid tumors and suitable treatment strategies are warranted.

Therapeutic Strategies for Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Associated with Aortic Aneurysm

Aortic aneurysms are sometimes associated with enhanced-fibrinolytic-type disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). In enhanced-fibrinolytic-type DIC, both coagulation and fibrinolysis are markedly activated. Typical cases show decreased platelet counts and fibrinogen levels, increased concentrations of fibrin/fibrinogen degradation products (FDP) and D-dimer, and increased FDP/D-dimer ratios. Thrombin-antithrombin complex or prothrombin fragment 1 + 2, as markers of coagulation activation, and plasmin-α₂ plasmin inhibitor complex, a marker of fibrinolytic activation, are all markedly increased. Prolongation of prothrombin time (PT) is not so obvious, and the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) is rather shortened in some cases. As a result, DIC can be neither diagnosed nor excluded based on PT and APTT alone. Many of the factors involved in coagulation and fibrinolysis activation are serine proteases. Treatment of enhanced-fibrinolytic-type DIC requires consideration of how to control the function of these serine proteases. The cornerstone of DIC treatment is treatment of the underlying pathology. However, in some cases surgery is either not possible or exacerbates the DIC associated with aortic aneurysm. In such cases, pharmacotherapy becomes even more important. Unfractionated heparin, other heparins, synthetic protease inhibitors, recombinant thrombomodulin, and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are agents that inhibit serine proteases, and all are effective against DIC. Inhibition of activated coagulation factors by anticoagulants is key to the treatment of DIC. Among them, DOACs can be taken orally and is useful for outpatient treatment. Combination therapy of heparin and nafamostat allows fine-adjustment of anticoagulant and antifibrinolytic effects. While warfarin is an anticoagulant, this agent is ineffective in the treatment of DIC because it inhibits the production of coagulation factors as substrates without inhibiting activated coagulation factors. In addition, monotherapy using tranexamic acid in cases of enhanced-fibrinolytic-type DIC may induce fatal thrombosis. If tranexamic acid is needed for DIC, combination with anticoagulant therapy is of critical importance.

Complete hemostasis achieved by factor XIII concentrate administration in a patient with bleeding after teeth extraction as a complication of aplastic anemia and chronic disseminated intravascular coagulation

: Hemostatic treatment of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) due to aortic aneurysm involves numerous difficulties. An 89-year-old man with aplastic anemia and chronic DIC developed periodontitis and loose teeth requiring extraction, after which hemostasis was difficult. Platelet concentrates and fresh-frozen plasma transfusions were ineffective, and there was a risk of hemorrhage; therefore, administration of anticoagulant agents for DIC was inappropriate. A decrease in factor XIII (FXIII) was discovered, and FXIII concentrate was administered, resulting in hemostasis together with wound healing. No complications were seen, but the following coagulation markers were found to decrease: fibrin degradation products, D-dimer, thrombin-antithrombin complex, and plasmin-α2 plasmin inhibitor complex. By 1 month after FXIII administration, FXIII had returned to the preadministration level, thus, the FXIII decrease was deduced to be have been due to DIC. These findings suggest that FXIII concentrate is useful for treating hemorrhage associated with DIC due to aortic aneurysm.

Management of disseminated intravascular coagulation associated with aortic aneurysm and vascular malformations

Aortic aneurysms and vascular malformations are sometimes associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). A typical blood coagulation test shows decrease in platelet count and fibrinogen, and increases in fibrin/fibrinogen degradation products (FDP) and D-dimer. The coagulation activation marker thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT) and the fibrinolysis activation marker plasmin-α₂ plasmin inhibitor (PIC) are significantly increased. α₂ plasmin inhibitor (α₂PI) is significantly reduced. Since no prolongation of prothrombin time (PT) is noticeable and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) is shortened in some cases, DIC cannot be diagnosed or ruled out by PT and APTT alone. The cornerstone of treatment for DIC is to treat the underlying disease. However, surgery is not possible in some cases. Follow-up may be appropriate in patients with abnormal results from coagulation tests and no bleeding. However, pharmacotherapy is often required in cases with bleeding. Unfractionated heparin, low molecular weight heparin, protease inhibitors, recombinant thrombomodulin, direct oral anticoagulants, and factor XIII preparations are effective. If PIC is significantly increased and α₂PI is significantly decreased, or if the bleeding is severe, tranexamic acid is used as an antifibrinolytic therapy with anticoagulant therapy. In such cases, attention should be paid not only to TAT but also changes in PIC.

Thrombomodulin in disseminated intravascular coagulation and other critical conditions-a multi-faceted anticoagulant protein with therapeutic potential

Thrombomodulin plays a vital role in maintaining intravascular patency due to its anticoagulant, antiinflammatory, and cytoprotective properties. However, under pathological conditions such as sepsis and systemic inflammation, endothelial thrombomodulin expression is downregulated and its function impaired. As a result, administering thrombomodulin represents a potential therapeutic modality. Recently, the effect of recombinant thrombomodulin administration in sepsis-induced coagulopathy was evaluated in a randomized controlled study (SCARLET). A 2.6% 28-day absolute mortality reduction (26.8% vs. 29.4%) was reported in 800 patients studied that was not statistically significant; however, a post hoc analysis revealed a 5.4% absolute mortality reduction among the patients who fulfilled the entry criterion at baseline. The risk of bleeding did not increase compared to placebo control. Favorable effects of thrombomodulin administration have been reported not only in sepsis-induced coagulopathy but also in disseminated intravascular coagulations with various backgrounds. Interestingly, beneficial effects of recombinant thrombomodulin in respiratory, renal, and cardiovascular diseases might depend on its anti-inflammatory mechanisms. In this review, we summarize the accumulated knowledge of endogenous as well as recombinant thrombomodulin from basic to clinical aspects and suggest future directions for this novel therapeutic agent.

Tranexamic Acid for Prevention and Treatment of Postpartum Hemorrhage: An Update on Management and Clinical Outcomes

Importance

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) remains a major cause of maternal mortality worldwide, occurring in both vaginal and cesarean deliveries. We have witnessed improvements in both prevention and treatment of PPH. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been investigated as a potential adjunct therapy to uterotonics within this setting.

Objective

The aim of this article is to summarize existing recommendations on the use of TXA in obstetrics and review current data on clinical outcomes after TXA use.

Evidence Acquisition

We reviewed guidelines from a number of professional societies and performed an extensive literature search reviewing relevant and current data in this area.

Results and Conclusions

In the prevention of PPH, TXA use before both vaginal and cesarean deliveries reduces the amount of postpartum blood loss and should be considered in patients at higher risk for hemorrhage. In the treatment of PPH, TXA should be initiated early for maximal survival benefit from hemorrhage, and it provides no additional benefit if administered more than 3 hours from delivery. Overall, current evidence assessing the risks of TXA use in an obstetric population is reassuring.

Tranexamic Acid Controlled Chronic Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Associated with Aortic Dissection and Patent False Lumen for Three Years

The management of chronic disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) caused by aortic dissection has not yet been established. Even in cases where surgical correction is performed, therapeutic control of systemic hemorrhaging is still required. We herein report the successful treatment of a case of aortic dissection with a patent false lumen using tranexamic acid for acute exacerbation of chronic DIC. Oral administration of 1,500 mg tranexamic acid per day stabilized the coagulative and fibrinolytic parameters and relieved bleeding tendencies with no side effects. Heparin was administered periodically for the management of hemodialysis. This favorable result continued for up to 3 years.

Policy of high-dose tranexamic acid for treating postpartum hemorrhage after vaginal delivery

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether a policy of routine administration of high-dose tranexamic acid (TA) at the diagnosis of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) reduces blood loss after vaginal birth.

METHODS

This controlled single-center before-and-after study of all women with PPH ≥ 500 ml after vaginal birth took place from January 2011 through March 2012; the control group included those seen from January 2011 through August 2011, and the case patients those from September 2011 through March 2012. Our protocol for the management of PPH was modified effective September 2011 to include administration of high-dose TA (4 g of TA intravenously then 1 g/h for 6 h) once blood loss reached 800 ml. Our primary objective was to assess the efficacy of this policy in reducing blood loss in PPH.

RESULTS

Maternal characteristics did not differ between the two groups. Mean estimated blood loss was not significantly lower in the TA group (n = 138) than in the control group (n = 151) (respectively, 915.7 ± 321 ml versus 944.8 ± 313.8 ml; p = 0.47). The difference between pre- and post-delivery hemoglobin levels were lower in the TA group (-2.6 g/dl ± 1.2 versus -2.9 g/dl ± 1.3; p = 0.09), but it was not significant. Postpartum iron sucrose injections were significantly less frequent in the TA than the control group (2.2% versus 9.9%; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

A policy of high-dose TA in PPH after vaginal deliveries was not associated with a significant reduction of blood loss.

Study protocol. TRAAP - TRAnexamic Acid for Preventing postpartum hemorrhage after vaginal delivery: a multicenter randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Background

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a major cause of maternal mortality, accounting for one quarter of all maternal deaths worldwide. Estimates of its incidence in the literature vary widely, from 3 % to 15 % of deliveries. Uterotonics after birth are the only intervention that has been shown to be effective in preventing PPH. Tranexamic acid (TXA), an antifibrinolytic agent, has been investigated as a potentially useful complement to uterotonics for prevention because it has been proved to reduce blood loss in elective surgery, bleeding in trauma patients, and menstrual blood loss. Randomized controlled trials for PPH prevention after cesarean (n = 10) and vaginal (n = 2) deliveries show that women who received TXA had significantly less postpartum blood loss without any increase in their rate of severe adverse effects. However, the quality of these trials was poor and they were not designed to test the effect of TXA on the reduction of PPH incidence. Large, adequately powered, multicenter randomized controlled trials are required before the widespread use of TXA to prevent PPH can be recommended.

Methods and design

A multicenter, double-blind, randomized controlled trial will be performed. It will involve 4000 women in labor for a planned vaginal singleton delivery, at a term ≥ 35 weeks. Treatment (either TXA 1 g or placebo) will be administered intravenously just after birth. Prophylactic oxytocin will be administered to all women. The primary outcome will be the incidence of PPH, defined by blood loss ≥500 mL, measured with a graduated collector bag. This study will have 80 % power to show a 30 % reduction in the incidence of PPH, from 10.0 % to 7.0 %.

Discussion

In addition to prophylactic uterotonic administration, a complementary component of the management of third stage of labor acting on the coagulation process may be useful in preventing PPH. TXA is a promising candidate drug, inexpensive, easy to administer, and simple to add to the routine management of deliveries in hospitals. This large, adequately powered, multicenter, randomized placebo-controlled trial seeks to determine if the risk-benefit ratio favors the routine use of TXA after delivery to prevent PPH.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02302456 (November 17, 2014)

Classifying types of disseminated intravascular coagulation: clinical and animal models

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) has a common pathogenesis in terms of persistent widespread activation of coagulation in the presence of underlying disease, but the degree of fibrinolytic activation often differs by DIC type. DIC with suppressed fibrinolysis is a DIC type usually seen in sepsis. Coagulation activation is severe, but fibrinolytic activation is mild. DIC with enhanced fibrinolysis is a DIC type usually seen in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Both coagulation activation and fibrinolytic activation are severe. DIC with balanced fibrinolysis is a DIC type usually seen in solid tumors, with an intermediate pathogenesis between the above two types. In animal DIC models, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced models are similar to suppressed-fibrinolytic-type DIC, whereas tissue factor (TF)-induced models are similar to enhanced fibrinolytic/balanced fibrinolytic DIC. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment may also differ depending on the DIC type.

Low dose, oral epsilon aminocaproic acid for renal papillary necrosis and massive hemorrhage in hemoglobin SC disease

Renal papillary necrosis in sickling hemoglobinopathies can lead to significant complications, including hemorrhage, obstruction, and infection. Despite its frequency, there are limited therapies for protracted hemorrhage. In the past, massive hemorrhage was managed with nephrectomy. Here, we report a patient with hemoglobin SC disease and prolonged, life-threatening hemorrhage from papillary necrosis successfully treated with oral, low-dose epsilon aminocaproic acid (EACA). Although further study is warranted, this case illustrates the need to consider EACA in the conservative management of renal papillary necrosis and significant hemorrhage in sickle cell hemoglobinopathies.

The fibrinolytic system attenuates vascular tone: effects of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and aminocaproic acid on renal microcirculation

1. The renal medulla is a major source of plasminogen activators (PA), recently shown to induce vasodilation in vitro. Treatment with PA inhibitors has been associated with renal dysfunction, suggesting compromised renal microvasculature. We investigated the impact of the PA inhibitor epsilon amino-caproic acid (EACA) upon vascular tone in vitro, and studied the effect of both tPA and EACA upon intrarenal hemodynamics in vivo. 2. In vitro experiments were carried out in isolated aortic rings and with cultured vascular smooth muscle cells. Studies of renal microcirculation and morphology were conducted in anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats. 3. In isolated aortic rings, EACA (but not the other inhibitors of the fibrinolytic system PAI-1 or alpha-2 antiplasmin) reduced the half-maximal effective concentration of phenylephrine (PE) required to induce contraction (from 32 nm in control solution to 2 and 0.1 nm at EACA concentrations of 1 and 10 microm, respectively). Using reteplase (retavase) in the same model, we also provide evidence that the vasoactivity of tPA is in part kringle-dependent. In cultured vascular smooth muscle cells, Ca(2+) internalization following PE was enhanced by EACA, and retarded by tPA. 4. In anesthetized rats, EACA (150 mg x kg(-1)) did not affect systemic blood pressure, total renal or cortical blood flow. However, the outer medullary blood flow declined 12+/-2% below the baseline (P<0.03). By contrast, tPA (2 mg x kg(-1)), transiently increased outer medullary blood flow by 8+/-5% (P<0.02). Fibrin microthrombi were not found within the renal microvasculature in EACA-treated animals. 5. In conclusion, both fibrinolytic and antifibrinolytic agents modulate medullary renal blood flow with reciprocal effects of vasodilation (PA) and vasoconstriction (EACA). In vitro studies suggest that these hemodynamic responses are related to direct modulation of the vascular tone.

Endogenous alpha2-antiplasmin does not enhance glomerular fibrin deposition or injury in glomerulonephritis

BACKGROUND

Fibrin deposition is an important mechanism of glomerular injury in crescentic glomerulonephritis (GN), a severe form of immune renal injury. Both coagulation and fibrinolysis (via the plasminogen-plasmin system) are important in net glomerular fibrin accumulation in GN. alpha2-Antiplasmin (alpha2-AP) is the major circulating inhibitor of plasmin and is expressed in the renal tubulointerstitium.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether endogenous alpha2-AP contributes to glomerular fibrin accumulation in GN.

METHODS

Crescentic autologous phase antiglomerular basement membrane GN was induced in mice with intact and deficient endogenous alpha2-AP (alpha2-AP+/+ and alpha2-AP-/- mice).

RESULTS

In mice with crescentic GN, alpha2-AP was detected in the tubulointerstitium and in segmental deposits within some glomeruli. alpha2-AP+/+ mice developed crescentic GN (38 +/- 9% glomeruli affected) with glomerular fibrin deposition and renal impairment (serum creatinine 30 +/- 1 micro mol L-1, normal without GN 11 +/- 1 micro mol L-1). Genetic deficiency of alpha2-AP did not result in attenuated glomerular fibrin deposition, crescent formation (39 +/- 8% glomeruli affected), glomerular leukocyte infiltration or renal impairment (serum creatinine 33 +/- 7 micro mol L-1). alpha2-AP was unmeasurable in kidneys from alpha2-AP-/- mice, which did not develop compensatory changes in plasminogen, tissue type plasminogen activator (tPA), urokinase type PA (uPA) or plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 proteins, or changes in tPA or uPA activity. alpha2-AP-/- mice did have enhanced total renal fibrinolytic capacity as assessed by in situ fibrin overlay (alpha2-AP+/+ 0.19 +/- 0.01, alpha2-AP-/- 0.36 +/- 0.03 lyzed area/total area).

CONCLUSIONS

alpha2-AP is not important to net glomerular fibrin deposition, crescent formation or renal impairment in crescentic GN.

[Macroscopic hematuria associated with sickle cell anemia trait: report of ten cases]

PURPOSE

Though currently asymptomatic, a sickle cell trait can be responsible for renal abnormalities with macroscopic hematuria.

METHODS

Ten patients were admitted to our department with gross hematuria in sickle trait.

RESULTS

Six blacks men and four blacks women, aged from 17 to 53 years, had recurrent episodes of gross hematuria with clots in five patients with lumbar pain in four patients. Duration of gross hematuria varied from two weeks to two years. Imaging findings were normal. Urinary concentration ability was abnormally low in all patients but none had an impairement of the ability to dilute the urine or tubular dysfunction. Resolution of hematuria was obtained by abundant and alkaline hydratation in three patients. In six patients, aminocaproic acid was successfully employed, with a complete (3/6) or partial (3/6) efficiency. In one last patient, oral urea permitted a partial improvement.

CONCLUSION

Combination of chemical and physical factors in renal medullary of sickle cell trait are responsible for gross hematuria and impaired capacity to concentrate the urine. A cautious care must still be given to make this association a diagnostic of exclusion. Clinical is usually benign. When resting and alkaline hydration are not sufficient to resolve hematuria, antifibrinolytic agents such as aprotinin, oral urea, urologic technical are sometimes necessary.

Epsilon-aminocaproic acid administration and stroke following coronary artery bypass graft surgery

BACKGROUND

Epsilon-aminocaproic acid is routinely used to reduce bleeding during cardiac surgery. Anecdotal reports of thrombotic complications have led to speculation regarding this drug's safety. We investigated the association between epsilon-aminocaproic acid administration and postoperative stroke.

METHODS

Six thousand two hundred ninety-eight patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery between 1989 and 1995 were studied. Data was obtained from the Duke Cardiovascular Database as well as from an automated intraoperative anesthesia record keeper. Patients identified as having postoperative stroke were reviewed and confirmed by a board certified neurologist blinded to epsilon-aminocaproic acid administration.

RESULTS

Postoperative stroke occurred in 97 patients (1.5%). Three thousand one hundred thirty-five (49.8%) patients received epsilon-aminocaproic acid. Increased age was associated with a higher incidence of postoperative stroke (p = 0.0001). In contrast, there was no significant difference (p = 0.7370) in the incidence of stroke between use of epsilon-aminocaproic acid (1.3%) and nonuse (1.7%). Multivariable logistic regression found no significant effect of epsilon-aminocaproic acid use on stroke after accounting for age, date of surgery, and history of diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

This series suggests that epsilon-aminocaproic acid administration does not increase the risk of postoperative stroke.

Acute hyperkalemia associated with intravenous epsilon-aminocaproic acid therapy

Epsilon-aminocaproic acid (Amicar) is used to treat severe hemorrhage refractory to usual medical management. This antifibrinolytic drug has been associated with a number of renal complications. However, there are no descriptions of this medication causing hyperkalemia. This report describes the development of hyperkalemia in a patient with underlying chronic renal insufficiency treated with intravenous epsilon-aminocaproic acid. The patient, who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting, had no other obvious cause for the acute increase in serum potassium concentration. Based on data in animals and humans, the cationic amino acids lysine and arginine have been shown to enter muscle cells in exchange for potassium and lead to hyperkalemia through a shift of potassium from the intracellular to the extracellular space. Epsilon-aminocaproic acid, a synthetic amino acid structurally similar to lysine and arginine, also has been noted to cause an acute increase in serum potassium in anephric dogs infused with this medication. It is probable that the mechanism underlying the increase in serum potassium with epsilon-aminocaproic acid is also based on the shift of potassium from the intracellular to the extracellular space. Hence, it appears that intravenous epsilon-aminocaproic acid can also cause hyperkalemia in humans.

Aprotinin versus epsilon-aminocaproic acid for aortic surgery using deep hypothermic circulatory arrest

OBJECTIVE

To compare the relative efficacy of aprotinin and epsilon-aminocaproic acid (EACA) in decreasing blood loss and transfusion requirements after aortic surgery involving deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA).

DESIGN

A retrospective chart review.

SETTING

A university medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty-nine patients who had undergone thoracic aortic surgery with the use of circulatory arrest.

INTERVENTIONS

Charts were examined for variables believed to influence postoperative blood loss, including the use of medications, and for the amount of postoperative chest tube drainage and perioperative transfusion.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Median chest tube output (CTO) at 6 and 12 hours postoperatively was nearly identical in patients treated with aprotinin or EACA (660 and 1,015 v 700 and 950 mL for aprotinin and EACA at 6 and 12 hours, respectively), as were total perioperative blood transfusions. Complications were not significantly different between groups with the exception of a trend toward increased incidence of renal failure in the group receiving EACA.

CONCLUSION

Aprotinin and EACA appear to be equally efficacious in reducing perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirements in patients undergoing aortic surgery involving DHCA. Questions of safety remain about the use of EACA in this setting that could not be addressed by this small retrospective study. A prospective, placebo-controlled study is warranted to confirm the absolute efficacy of these agents and to better define safety issues.

Acute promyelocytic leukaemia in the all trans retinoic acid era

Bleeding diathesis is a common complication of acute promyelocyctic leukaemia (APL). Multiple haemostatic defects are found in most patients with APL, which often worsen following cytoreductive chemotherapy. Besides thrombocytopenia, most patients develop disseminated intravascular coagulation, systemic fibrinolysis or both. A major aim in treating haemostatic defects of APL is to prevent death or disability from bleeding until chemotherapy clears the malignant promyelocytes from the blood and bone marrow. The therapeutic options are discussed in this review and practical guidelines for treatment are outlined.

Fibrin deposition in tissues from endotoxin-treated mice correlates with decreases in the expression of urokinase-type but not tissue-type plasminogen activator

The primary hypothesis of this report is that the formation and subsequent removal of fibrin in specific tissues during pathologic processes reflects temporal changes in the local expression of key procoagulant and fibrinolytic genes. To begin to test this hypothesis, we have used quantitative PCR assays and in situ hybridization analysis to examine the effects of endotoxin on the expression of specific genes in murine tissues, and to relate these changes to fibrin deposition/dissolution using immunohistochemical approaches. Endotoxin caused large increases in plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 mRNA and modest increases in tissue factor mRNA in most tissues examined. However, fibrin was only detected in the kidneys and adrenals of endotoxin-treated mice, and it was transient. Unexpectedly, changes in urokinase-type plasminogen activator mRNA but not tissue-type plasminogen activator mRNA correlated with fibrin deposition/dissolution in these tissues. Pretreatment of mice with the fibrinolytic inhibitor epsilon-aminocaproic acid before endotoxin increased both the number of fibrin-positive tissues and the duration of fibrin deposition in the kidneys and adrenals. These results suggest that the absence of fibrin in some tissues reflects ongoing local fibrinolysis, and that increases in plasminogen activator inhibitory and tissue fac- tor gene expression and decreases in urokinase-type plasminogen activator expression are necessary for tissue-specific fibrin deposition. Changes in tissue-type plasminogen activator gene expression do not appear to be essential for fibrin deposition/dissolution in this murine model of sepsis.

Protracted, gross hematuria in sickle cell trait: response to multiple doses of 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin

Gross and microscopic hematuria are well-known complications in patients with sickle cell hemoglobinopathy. Most of these episodes of gross hematuria are self limiting, but rarely may be severe and persistent requiring definitive intervention. Before subjecting these patients to surgical management such as partial or total nephrectomy, several medical therapies of variable benefit have been suggested. We report a patient with sickle cell trait who experienced severe, intractable gross hematuria for 5 months and showed a dramatic response to multiple doses of 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (DDAVP) infusion. The remarkable response observed in this patient suggests that treatment with DDAVP infusion may be considered in patients with unremitting gross hematuria associated with sickle cell trait.

In vivo measurements of fibrin formation and degradation in nephrotic patients

Intraglomerular fibrin deposition has been implicated as an important pathogenetic mechanism in patients with glomerular diseases and the nephrotic syndrome. To investigate fibrin formation and degradation in nephrosis, we measured fibrinopeptide A by radioimmunoassay and D-dimer by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in the plasma of 30 consecutive adult patients with the nephrotic syndrome; in 10 the serum creatinine was more than 2 mg/dl. Both fibrinopeptide A and D-dimer were abnormally elevated in the majority of nephrotics (P < 0.001 vs. healthy controls), providing evidence of increased fibrin generation and lysis "in vivo." A positive correlation was found between fibrinopeptide A and D-dimer (correlation coefficient 0.64, P < 0.001), suggesting a close relationship between fibrin formation and degradation. Calcium heparin, administered to 12 nephrotics, caused a marked decrease in plasma fibrinopeptide A, due to a reduction of in vivo thrombin activity. As enhanced thrombin activity can favor fibrin deposition within the renal parenchyma, as well as vascular complications, it is reasonable to assume that an antithrombotic treatment aimed at controlling thrombin generation may ameliorate the natural history of nephrosis.

Glomerular fibrinolytic activity in anti-GBM glomerulonephritis in rabbits

Fibrin is an important mediator of injury in severe proliferative forms of glomerulonephritis (GN). Normal glomeruli express fibrinolytic activity, which may protect against the injurious effects of fibrin deposition. Changes in glomerular fibrinolytic activity (GFA) may play an important role in modulating fibrin accumulation in GN. To study the changes in GFA associated with fibrin deposition in GN, autologous phase anti-glomerular basement antibody initiated GN (anti-GBM GN) was studied in rabbits. Net GFA was significantly reduced in association with glomerular fibrin deposition (1.3 +/- 0.8 ng fibrin lysed/10(3) glomeruli/2 hr, normal 57.1 +/- 25.4 ng fibrin lysed/10(3) glomeruli/2 hr, P < 0.02). Reduced GFA in fibrin associated GN was associated with decreased expression of tissue type plasminogen activator (tPA) and increased expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 (PAI-1) and glomerular macrophage infiltration. In a fibrin independent model of anti-GBM induced GN (heterologous phase), with equivalent injury (proteinuria), net GFA was increased (174 +/- 64 ng fibrin lysed/10(3) glomeruli/2 hr). This was associated with increased tPA and uPA, and decreased PAI-1 in the absence of significant macrophage infiltration. These studies demonstrate that fibrin deposition in GN is associated with a net reduction of GFA, attributable to reduced expression of plasminogen activators and augmentation of PAI-1. Reduction of GFA may potentiate glomerular fibrin deposition and consequent glomerular injury. The association between glomerular macrophage influx and reduction in GFA suggests that this change may be directed by macrophages.

Hemostatic effects of tranexamic acid and desmopressin during cardiac surgery

BACKGROUND

Desmopressin-induced release of tissue plasminogen activator from endothelial cells may explain the absence of its hemostatic effect in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Prior administration of the antifibrinolytic drug tranexamic acid might unmask such an effect, and combination therapy might thereby improve postoperative hemostasis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A double-blinded design randomly allocated 163 adult patients undergoing coronary revascularization, valve replacement, both procedures, or repair of atrial septal defect to four treatment groups: placebo, tranexamic acid given as 10 mg/kg over 30 minutes followed by 1 mg.kg-1.hr-1 for 12 hours initiated before skin incision, desmopressin given as 0.3 micrograms/kg over 20 minutes after protamine infusion, and both drugs. One surgeon performed all operations. Blood loss consisted of mediastinal tube drainage over 12 hours. Follow-up visits sought evidence of myocardial infarction and stroke. Desmopressin decreased neither the 12-hour blood loss nor the amount of homologous red cells transfused. Tranexamic acid alone significantly reduced 12-hour blood loss, by 30% (mean, 318 versus 453 ml; p less than 0.0001), without enhancement by desmopressin. Tranexamic acid also decreased the proportion of patients receiving homologous blood within 12 hours of operation (8% versus 21%, p = 0.024) and within 5 days of operation (22% versus 41%, p = 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

Desmopressin exerts no hemostatic effect, with or without prior administration of antifibrinolytic drug. Prophylactic tranexamic acid alone appears economical and safe in decreasing blood loss and transfusion requirement after cardiac surgery.

Therapy of the Kasabach-Merritt syndrome with cryoprecipitate plus intra-arterial thrombin and aminocaproic acid

A patient with the Kasabach-Merritt syndrome with disseminated intravascular coagulopathy and congestive heart failure due to a giant hepatic cavernous hemangioma achieved thrombosis of his tumor with a combination of cryoprecipitate plus intra-arterial thrombin and epsilon aminocaproic acid. This was documented by an absence of Indium 111-labelled platelet sequestration, marked decrease in thrombin:antithrombin complex generation, and normalization of platelet count and fibrinogen. Interventional angiography with aminocaproic acid and thrombin is advocated in patients whose tumors are amenable to such an approach so as to avoid a systemic antifibrinolytic state.

Cerebral sinus thrombosis as a potential hazard of antifibrinolytic treatment in menorrhagia

We describe a 42-year-old woman who developed superior sagittal and left transverse sinus thrombosis associated with prolonged epsilon-aminocaproic acid therapy for menorrhagia. This antifibrinolytic agent has been used in women with menorrhagia to promote clotting and reduce blood loss. Although increased risk of thromboembolic disease has been reported during treatment with epsilon-aminocaproic acid, cerebral sinus thrombosis has not been previously described. Careful use of epsilon-aminocaproic acid therapy is recommended.

Antifibrinolytic therapy in the management of the Kasabach Merritt syndrome

The Kasabach Merritt syndrome consists of thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, and a localized consumption coagulopathy that develops within the abnormal vascular channels of a hemangioma. In general, these patients demonstrate only mild abnormalities of screening clotting tests, but they can potentially develop life-threatening complications. We present a patient who developed a severe anemia that was refractory to erythrocyte transfusions. Treatment with epsilon-aminocaproic acid to inhibit fibrinolysis and cryoprecipitate to replenish his deficient circulating fibrinogen interrupted the cycle of his systemic coagulopathy and enabled us to transfuse him to a normal hematocrit.

Participation of cell-mediated immunity in deposition of fibrin in glomerulonephritis

Fibrin deposition is prominent in delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reactions and is initiated by antigen-specific, T-lymphocyte-directed macrophage expression of human tissue factor (HTF). To examine the role of DTH in glomerular fibrin deposition, 10 fibrin-positive and 24 fibrin-negative biopsy specimens from patients with glomerulonephritis (GN) and samples from normal controls were studied with monoclonal antibodies against T cells, macrophages, and HTF. Fibrin-positive sections showed intense glomerular staining for HTF and significantly more T cells and macrophages than fibrin-negative specimens. All the essential elements of DTH reactions can therefore be simultaneously demonstrated within glomeruli from patients with fibrin-related GN. These findings suggest a role for cell mediated immunity in GN.

Acute renal failure due to high-grade obstruction following therapy with epsilon-aminocaproic acid

An 18-year-old man with mild factor VIII deficiency developed hematuria and, subsequently, acute renal failure due to high-grade urinary obstruction by clots during therapy with cryoprecipitate, epsilon-aminocaproic acid, and acetazolamide administered for ocular trauma. Discontinuation of therapy with the latter two agents and induction of a brisk diuresis with intravenous (IV) fluid therapy resulted in return of renal function concomitant with spontaneous clot passage. A review of previous literature suggests that hemophiliacs may be more susceptible than nonhemophiliacs to high-grade urinary obstruction due to clot formation when epsilon-aminocaproic acid is administered during episodes of hematuria. Acute flank pain, fever, and delayed dense nephrograms on IV pyelogram are characteristic of the syndrome and distinguish it from other forms of acute renal failure associated with epsilon-aminocaproic acid.

Use of epsilon aminocaproic acid in protracted bleeding from polycystic kidneys: a case report

A case is reported in which protracted and massive bleeding from polycystic kidneys was treated successfully with epsilon aminocaproic acid with no adverse effects. Our experience with this case suggests that a short trial with epsilon aminocaproic acid is a reasonable choice before surgical intervention in patients bleeding from polycystic kidneys.