ClaussFibrinogen

ClaussFibrinogen is a clinical assay used to measure the functional concentration of fibrinogen in human plasma. Fibrinogen, a glycoprotein produced by the liver, plays a crucial role in blood clot formation by being converted into fibrin during the coagulation process. Accurate measurement of fibrinogen levels is essential in diagnosing and managing bleeding disorders, thrombotic conditions, and monitoring patients undergoing surgeries or anticoagulant therapy.

The Clauss method, developed by Wolfgang Clauss in 1957, is considered the standard assay for fibrinogen estimation. It involves adding a high concentration of thrombin to diluted plasma sample, which converts the fibrinogen into fibrin. The time taken for the clot to form (clotting time) is inversely proportional to the fibrinogen concentration. This clotting time is then compared to a calibration curve generated using standard plasma samples with known fibrinogen levels to determine the fibrinogen concentration in the test sample.

The assay is valued for its specificity and reliability, although it can be affected by the presence of heparin, liver disease, or dysfibrinogenemia. It is widely used in clinical laboratories due to its relatively straightforward procedure and rapid turnaround time.

In clinical practice, ClaussFibrinogen testing aids in diagnosing conditions such as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), hypofibrinogenemia, and assessing bleeding risk. It also serves as a vital parameter in monitoring therapy effectiveness in bleeding or clotting disorders. Overall, the Clauss assay remains a cornerstone in coagulation testing for fibrinogen assessment.