ABSTRACT
Fibrinolysis involves complex interactions between enzymes resulting in the breakdown of brin and dissolution of the brin network that supports thrombus structure. A key component to this process is plasminogen, an inactive proteolytic enzyme and a precursor to plasmin. Most brinolytic agents act indirectly through plasminogen. Plasminogen is synthesized in the liver prior to becoming a constituent of plasma, and the extracellular uid.1,2 Infancy, cirrhosis and disseminated intravascular coagulation are associated with low levels of plasminogen. Trauma, surgery and infectious processes are associated with an increase in circulating plasminogen, secondary to elevation of acute phase reactants.3
