Anaphylactic Shock in Dogs

Abstract

THE ROLE of the fibrinolysin system in conditions associated with shock is complex and poorly understood. Increased fibrinolysis has been reported in anaphylactic shock,¹ major operations,² obstetrical accidents and hemorrhage,³ and sudden death.⁴ A recent review⁵ suggests that the initial reaction in certain types of shock is activation of a protease system and subsequent formation or release or both of vasoactive polypeptides capable of stimulating activity of smooth muscle. These polypeptides, existing in the form of precursors in the systemic circulation and in various tissues, have been termed "kinins" and are reported to be released during peptone and anaphylactic shock.⁶ Despite reports of the appearance of fibrinolysis and kinin in shock states, there is no convincing evidence that their appearance is interrelated and involved in the pathogenesis of shock. It has been shown that the fibrinolytic enzyme plasmin, when given by rapid intravenous injection