The effects of lowering plasma fibrinogen levels by Arvin injections have been investigated
in a rat model of arteriosclerosis. In this model air-drying-induced endothelial denudation
of the left carotid artery results in myointimal lesion development. Arvin (2 × 50
Units/kg) was given at 4 and 2 hours prior to surgery, reducing plasma fibrinogen
levels at surgery to about 20%. Fibrinogen levels then normalized within 24 hours.
Myointimal lesion development was evaluated morphometrically at 14 days after surgery.
Statistical analysis of the morphometric data showed that defibrinogenation had resulted
in significantly smaller myointimal lesions. Low plasma fibrinogen levels might thus
be considered a negative risk factor for intimal smooth muscle cell proliferation
in this model.
Keywords
Endothelial injury - Arterioscleros - Rat carotid artery - Rat carotid artery Defibrinogenation
- Arvin - Morphometry