ELEVATED FIBRIN(OGEN) DEGRADATION PRODUCTS IN THE ADULT RESPIRATORY-DISTRESS SYNDROME

Abstract

During a 60 h period after the onset of the adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in 14 patients or similar predisposing conditions without respiratory insufficiency (non-ARDS) in 12 patients, blood was obtained 3 times for assessment of coagulation, fibrinolysis and complement. Platelet counts decreased progressively in both groups and a platelet release protein, .beta.-thromboglobulin, was similarly increased in both groups. Fibrinopeptide A concentrations were similarly increased in both groups. Hemolytic activity of complement components C3 and C5 was within the normal range in both groups. The fibrin/fibrinogen degradation product, D-antigen, was significantly increased in the ARDS group over all time periods (P < 0.01). Apparently, higher concentrations of circulating fibrin/fibrinogen degradation products are associated with ARDS itself, as a marker of more extensive microvascular injury or as a possible mediator of injury.