clotting process

damage to arterial lining

collagen released

clotting factors

calcium ions, vitamin K and other plasma proteins

change in shape of platelets

from spherical discs to fully spread cells

which enzyme released by platelets

thromboplastin

what does thromboplastin catalyze

conversion of protein prothrombin to enzyme thrombin

what does thrombin catalyze

soluble fibrinogen to insoluble fibrin mesh

why is fibrin insoluble

it creates a mesh of fibers that traps platelets, red blood cells and plasma proteins that clot the vessel

prevent excessive clotting

platelet inhibitors, anticoagulants

what are the risks of prescribing anticoagulants

can cause excessive bleeding, careful dosage is required