Plasminogen, Antigenic

Use

This test, in combination with Plasminogen Activity (test code 4458), can help distinguish between two rare congenital plasminogen deficiency disorders: type I deficiency (hypoplasminogenemia) and type II deficiency (dysplasminogenemia). Type I deficiency is a quantitative deficiency—both antigenic and activity levels are low—and may cause ligneous conjunctivitis. Type II deficiency is a functional deficiency where antigenic levels are normal but activity is low. Plasminogen, synthesized in the liver, is part of the fibrinolysis system and is converted to plasmin in the presence of fibrin to limit clot formation and support wound healing. Low levels may be acquired—e.g., due to thrombolytic therapy, disseminated intravascular coagulation, or liver disease—or congenital.