Association of Protein C, S and Antithrombin III Deficiencies with Thrombosis and Stroke

Background: Isolated deficiencies of Protein C, Protein S, Antithrombin III and Plasminogen have been implicated as a cause of thrombosis. Patients with recurrent, familial, or early onset thrombosis are more likely to have these deficiencies. Method: The present study is conducted retrospectively over a period of one year to know the relationship between deficiency of natural anticoagulants (Protein C, Protein S, and Antithrombin III) with thrombosis and stroke. We have taken 130 cases, and levels of natural anticoagulants were measured for each case with an automated coagulation analyzer. Aims and objectives: 1) To study the frequency of protein C, protein S and antithrombin III in patient of thrombosis and/or stroke 2) To observe the pattern and distribution of natural anticoagulant deficiencies among these patients 3) To correlate findings with clinical presentation. Result: A total of 130 patients with thrombotic events or stroke were evaluated for natural anticoagulant deficiencies, of whom 48.46% showed one or more deficiencies. Protein S deficiency was the most common abnormality, occurring alone or in combination, particularly in the 21-40 years age group. Deep venous thrombosis was the most frequent clinical presentation and showed a strong association with anticoagulant deficiencies. Deficiencies were slightly more prevalent in females. Combined deficiencies were more common in younger adults, while older patients more often had no detectable deficiency.Conclusion: Protein S, protein C, and antithrombin III deficiencies are associated with a high risk of thrombosis. Screening for these deficiencies, followed by thromboprophylaxis, may help in reducing episodes of provoked venous thromboembolism.