In vitro and in vivo effects of heparin on cryofibrinogen.

Abstract

THE plasma of patients with a variety of pathologic conditions1 2 3 4 has been shown to form gelatinous precipitates at 4°C that have been designated cryofibrinogens if no cold precipitate is present in serum. Similar cold precipitates have been demonstrated in the plasma of endotoxin-treated rabbits by the addition of heparin.5 Clinically prohibitive doses of heparin were demonstrated by Heinrich et al.6 to prevent cryofibrinogen formation. Cryofibrinogens have been demonstrated in many conditions with disseminated intravascular coagulation.7 8 9 Heparin and hypothermia have been shown to be useful in the treatment of shock present with disseminated intravascular coagulation.10 , 11 In vitro experience suggests that heparin . . .