Dan Med Bull
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The primary aim of the haemostatic mechanism is to protect the vascular system and to keep it intact after injury in order to secure the function of tissues and organs. A second aim is to provide a matrix in wound healing and tissue repair. The regulation of this physiological mechanism is effected by a dynamic haemostatic balance comprising interactions between endothelial cells, thrombocytes, coagulation, and fibrinolysis. ⋯ Effects of disturbances in the balance are illustrated by description of cases of haemorrhagic disorders or thrombosis, and the pathophysiological aspects are surveyed. The regulation of coagulation and fibrinolysis follows in both systems the same pattern. The active enzymes (thrombin and plasmin, respectively) are formed by activation of circulating proenzymes, and inhibitors (circulating or localized) exert their modifying influences at various stages of the total process.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)