The changing coagulation profile of females : can ultrastructure of fibrin teach us something?

Abstract

Estrogen plays an important role during the life of a healthy female and impacts on the coagulation profile. Products that impact on the hemostatic health of women include contraception, as well as using hormone replacement later in life. Also, lifestyle habits like smoking are known to have an impact on coagulation and hemostasis. Because hemostasis and estrogen are so closely linked to these lifestyle choices of women, it is suggested that an ultrastructure of fibrin networks may provide relevant insight into the changing coagulation profile of females. In the current research, the fibrin network in females, under different conditions, is studied using a scanning electron microscope. Control female profiles are compared with pregnancy, contraceptive use, hormone replacement, females who smoke, as well as females during old age. Here, we argue that the changes in the different stages of womanhood have a direct impact on the health and possibly thrombotic status in women. It is concluded that information provided by ultrastructural analysis during routine clinical history taking, might provide useful information regarding the most appropriate management or regime, particularly for women. Keywords: SEM,