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Euglobulin Lysis Time

Euglobulin lysis time measures the interval between clot formation and clot dissolution in plasma. A precipitated plasma extract is clotted with thrombin, and the time required for the clot to lyse is measured.

Purpose

• To assess the fibrinolytic system.
• To help detect abnormal fibrinolytic states.

Patient preparation

• Explain to the patient that this test is used to evaluate the blood clotting mechanism.
• Tell him that a blood sample will be taken. Explain who will perform the venipuncture and when.
• Reassure him that drawing a blood sample will take less than 3 minutes.
• Explain that he may feel slight discomfort from the tourniquet pressure and the needle puncture.
• Inform the patient that food or fluids need not be restricted before the test.

Procedure and posttest care

• Perform a venipuncture. Collect a 4.5-ml sample in a blue-top tube or in a chilled tube with 0.5-ml sodium oxalate.
• If a hematoma develops at the venipuncture site, apply warm soaks.

Precautions

• When drawing the sample, be careful not to rub the area over the vein too vigorously, pump the fist excessively, or leave the tourniquet in place too long.
• Avoid excessive probing during venipuncture, and handle the sample gently.
• If a blue-top tube is used, mix the sample and anticoagulant thoroughly. If a chilled tube containing 0.5 ml sodium oxalate is used, mix the sample and preservative thoroughly, pack the sample in ice, and send it to the laboratory immediately.

Reference values

Normal lysis of the plasma clot at 98.6°F (37°C) is 120 minutes.

Abnormal findings

Clot lysis within 1 hour indicates increased plasminogen activator activity. In pathologic fibrinolysis, lysis time may be as brief as 5 to 10 minutes.

Interfering factors

• Prolonged tourniquet constriction, vigorous vein preparation, or excessive pumping of the fist (decrease).
• Hemolysis due to excessive probing at the venipuncture site or to rough handling of the sample.
• Failure to place the collection tube and sample on ice
• Fibrinogen level < 100 mg/dl (possible decrease).

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