[The coagulation picture and plasma clearance capacity in atherosclerotic diabetics]

Abstract

An attempt is made to set out the complex question of the relations between plasma and wall factors in coagulation, platelets and lipids in atheroscderotic diabetes. The literature data show that this disease is associated the clotting and fibrinolytic systems as a result of the prevalence of thrombogenic factors and/or poor inhibitor activity. A survey is made of fibrinolysis activators and inhibitors, and of the part played by lipids in the aetiopathogenesis of thrombophilia, though the mechanisms responsible have not yet been fully established. Reference is made to De Gaetano's exposition of Walsh's views concerning the rôle of platelets in clotting. An assessment is made of the relations between platelets and lipoproteins, and hence of the importance of platelets in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Reference is made to a series of atherosclerotic diabetics. Hyperaggregability was noted in 60% of 30 cases. The experimental results obtained by Bierman et al. on the relation between insulin and lipoproteinlipase and the interference of insulin with PHLA are presented in an explanation of the clarifying power of plasma in this disease. Lastly, an account is given of lipoproteinlipase values observed in a personal series of 48 cases employing a radioimmunological technique. Baselines were depressed in 24 subjects.