Hypercoagulable states

Abstract

Several congenital and acquired hypercoagulable states have been identified in recent years. These conditions frequently are associated with venous or arterial thromboembolism and may be the cause of significant morbidity and mortality. This article reviews the roles of the endothelium, platelets, and the coagulation and fibrinolytic mechanisms to provide a basis for understanding the pathophysiology of the hypercoagulable states. This review is followed by a discussion of the more common congenital and acquired hypercoagulable disorders.