Antithrombin III Deficiency in Diabetes Mellitus: Influence on Vascular Degenerative Complications

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Abstract
Plasma Antithrombin III (At III), a natural inhibitor of coagulation, was determined using a single radial immunodiffusion technique. In 116 diabetics, plasma At III levels were significantly decreased (26.6 ± 0.4 mg/100 ml) compared with those in 64 controls (31.0 ± 0.3 mg/100 ml, P < 0.001). An elevation of plasma fibrinogen degradation products in 42 per cent of our patients, and a positive linear relationship between platelet counts and At HI levels (r = 0.29, P 2 = 6.09, P <0.02). It is postulated that the low levels of At III encountered in diabetes result from excessive consumption, and that the deficiency may be responsible for the onset and/or aggravation of intravascular clotting. At III deficiency may therefore contribute to vascular degenerative complications, particularly those leading to diabetic retinopathy.

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