Disorders of hemostasis

Abstract

The hemostasis system contributes to maintaining vessel wall integrity in the event of injury. Under physiological conditions, hemostasis-promoting and inhibitory processes are in equilibrium. When the hemostasis system is activated at the wrong time and place, thrombosis may result. Defects in the hemostasis mechanism, on the other hand, lead to hemorrhage. The diatheses on hemorrhage and hypercoagulability are often pathogenetically linked and also have clinical similarities, such as bleeding into tissue and ischemic necrosis with skin ulcers, as well as the leading symptom livedo; thus, laboratory examinations must be carried out in both directions. Dermatologists are not infrequently early "stewards" for a correct diagnosis and rapid, effective therapy. Apart from a manageable group of trend-setting diagnostic laboratory parameters, skin histology is particularly important.