Plasma cross-linked fibrin degradation products [DDimer] in patients with acute myocardial infarction and unstable angina

ABSTRACT

Plasma D. Dimer level was estimated in 30 patients with acute myocardial infarction [AMI], 10 patients with unstable angina and 10 normal subjects. Significant elevation of mean plasma elevation of mean plasma D. dimer was detected in patients with AMI [703 +/- 92 ng/ml], unstable angina [741 +/- 7 ng/ml]. Compared to normal controls [1177 ng/mL], 7 patients with unstable angina had an elevated plasma D. dimer level above 500 ng/mL, while 3 patients had normal level. The results suggested thrombin generation and fibrin formation and degradation in the AML group. The later changes were also present in the majority of patients with unstable angina [70%]. The presence of prothrombotic state associated with thrombosis may mediate the pathophysiology of most cases of unstable angina. Antiplatelets, anticoagulants and thrombolytic therapy may benefit these groups of patients with an elevated plasma D. dimer level