A simple method for measuring fibrinogen and evaluating its functionality

Abstract

Background. The Clauss fibrinogen assay is sensitive to hypo-, dys- and hyper-fibrinogenemia, as well as to fibrin degradation products, which may affect coagulation and cause underestimation of or increase the fibrinogen level.
The aim of this study was to develop a simple turbidimetric test to measure fibrinogen and evaluate its functionality.
Materials and methods. In this study, fibrinogen was measured in citrate plasma from 96 patients using the Clauss assay, a modified Rutberg method, and a new turbidimetric test.
Result. A simple turbidimetric test was developed for measuring fibrinogen. This test is based on measuring coagulated fibrinogen during recalcification of citrate plasma according to the formula, FG (g/l) = ΔА₄₅₀ × 5.12, where ΔА₄₅₀ is a change in optical density of the experimental sample; 5.12 is a conversion coefficient ΔА₄₅₀ in g/l FG. Correlation analysis showed a high degree of agreement between the results (R = 0.843). With a FG difference of more than 10% by the Clauss assay and the developed method, impaired functionality of the FG is stated.

Conclusion. Using a simple, affordable turbidimetric method to determine fibrinogen in routine studies allows accessing the fibrinogen functionality.