Wo l f g a n g S c h o b e r s b e r g e r, P e t r a I n n e r h o f e r, G ü n t h e r S u m a n n , M a r k u s M i t t e r m a y r, B e a t r i x S c h o b e r s b e r g e r, D i e t m a r F r i e s
Auswirkungen der Hypoxie auf die Blutgerinnung – Gibt es wissenschaftliche Evidenz? Influence of hypoxia on blood coagulation: is there scientific evidence?1
S U M M A RY For an extended period of time various research projects have been conducted on the relationship of hypoxia and haemostasis. The enclosed article contains the conclusion to which extent lack of oxygen can activate the coagulation system and induce a prothrombotic state. The majority of studies proved a shortening of coagulation times during acute exposure to hypoxia, whereas activated parameters of coagulation and fibrinolysis like prothrombin fragment F1+2 as well as thrombin-antithrombin III complexes and D-dimer remained mostly unmodified. It is suggested that a prolonged sojourn at high altitudes could lead to activation of the coagulation system through an increase of haematocrit and blood viscosity. Recently it was proven that people living at high altitudes show an enhanced risk of stroke incidents. The significance of the change in haemostasis on that outcome has not been part of the research yet. However, it has been proven that the activity of the coagulation system is not playing a pathophysiological part in the development of acute mountain sickness and high altitude pulmonary edema. Recent studies also demonstrated that moderate hypoxia during long haul flights may be not the main trigger to induce deep vein thrombosis in passengers. Keywords: Hypoxia, haemostasis, stroke, acute mountain sickness, travel thrombosis
1 Teile dieser Arbeit wurden bereits wie folgt veröffentlicht: Schobersberger et al., Wien Med Wochenschr. 2005 Apr: 155(7–8):157–62
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