Semin Vasc Med 2003; 03(1): 003-012
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-38328
Copyright © 2003 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Basic Mechanisms of Hemostasis

Kristin M. Seré, Tilman M. Hackeng
  • Department of Biochemistry, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, University Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Publication History

Publication Date:
27 March 2003 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Hemostasis governs two essential processes of human life in that it maintains the fluidity of blood under physiological conditions and prevents excessive blood loss after injury. Hemostasis is regulated by components of the vessel wall and blood cells and by humoral coagulation factors. Under normal conditions, these components are involved in an active equilibrium through activation, propagation, and termination of the hemostatic pathways. This equilibrium is disturbed upon vascular injury, leading to a procoagulant response when needed. Unfortunately, pathological disturbances can occur as a result of inherited or acquired coagulation factor deficiencies that may lead to bleeding or thrombotic disorders.