A study of the rôle of amino acids in clot retraction: The effect of methionine in restoring normal clot retraction and control of bleeding in essential thrombocytopenic purpura

Abstract

The influence of amino acids in the physiologic process of clot retraction and evidence pointing to impaired liver function in essential thrombocytopenic purpura have been presented. Methionine is more effective than cystine in controlling spontaneous bleeding and in restoring clot retraction in the acute form of essential thrombocytopenic purpura. The beneficial effects of the oral administration of methionine with regard to control of spontaneous bleeding and restoration of clot retraction have been definitely established and are of inestimable value in the management of both the acute and chronic stages of the disease. The use of methionine in this disease lends comforting support to the surgeon, preparatory to splenectomy.