[Use of chromogenic substrates in the clarification of disorders in the early stages of blood coagulation].

The kallikrein specific chromogenic peptide substrates S-2302 (KABI) and Chromozym PK (Boehringer) were used in the first analysis of a familial defect in the early stage of clotting. Slight to extensive prolongation of the activated partial thromboplastin time was seen in the affected persons. Using dextransulfate for activation of plasma marked deficiency in kallikrein activity was found in 3 persons. Using factor XIIa (activated Hageman factor) for activation normal prekallikrein levels were found in 2 of them whereas factor XII levels, however, were below normal. The third had a prekallikrein deficiency presumably caused by oral contraceptives. In a fourth member of the family factor XII deficiency was found with normal kallikrein activity. The application of chromogenic peptide substrates for analysing the early stage of clotting has to take into account the special mechanisms of activation.