Hemostasis Flashcards
What occurs immediately after blood vessel damage?
Myogenic contraction (vasoconstriction)
What occurs after a severe injury to a blood vessel?
Neurogenic vasospasm - increased sympathetic nerve firing + vasoconstriction via a spinal (pain) reflex
How long do myogenic and neurogenic contractions last?
20-30 min
What types of humoral responses cause vasoconstriction?
Serotonin Thromboxane A2 Prostaglandins (PGFs)
How long does humorally-triggered vasoconstriction last?
Several hours
What happens when subendothelial connective tissue is exposed to blood during injury?
Platelet adhesion to subendothelial collagen
What is Von Willebrand Factor (VWF)?
A plasma protein factor synthesized by endothelial cells that promotes platelet adhesion and clotting factor VIII. Missing/non-functioning VWF = Hereditary Von Willebrand disease.
What is platelet release reaction?
Alterations in shape and release of granules mediated by binding of VWF or thrombin to platelet membrane receptors. Causes release of calcium, serotonin, and ADP.
What is the relationship between ADP levels and clotting?
ADP levels must be above a critical concentration for platelets to maintain clumping. Release of additional ADP from storage sites accelerates clumping.
In addition to ADP, what is another potent aggregating agent?
Thromboxane A2
What prevents platelets from spreading?
Nearby cells secrete a powerful inhibitor, prostacyclin (PGI3).
What effect does aspirin have on clotting?
Reduces clotting by inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase which is needed to form thromboxane A2.
What is primary hemostasis?
Vasoconstriction + platelet plug formation
What is secondary hemostasis?
Blood coagulation
What is fibrinogen?
Circulating precursor to fibrin