Bolen's Clot Retraction Test
This test is a 'pattern recognition test'.
The test is performed by examination of morphological changes to the clot, and to the formation of fibrin and this is able to show variations in levels of oxidation. "Changes in various blood parameters due to pathological conditions have been observed for centuries, from "balling" of blood on the finger to sedimentation rate, clotting time, fibrogen level, etc. A major mechanism responsible for these changes is the generation of ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species). The production of ROS affects the basic cellular structures and metabolic pathways and also reacts with blood constituents to form various by-products which can be seen as morphological changes in the blood. The specific morphological changes in the blood vary as a function of the pathological condition, strength of the immune system, specific ROS as well as the level of ROS being generated."
The initial use of this form of clot retraction testing was as a bedside ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and so as in use of the ESR, the test is nonspecific, and therefore not diagnostic for any particular organ disease or injury. Because inflammatory, neoplastic, infectious and necrotic diseases, increase the protein (mainly fibrinogen) content of plasma, there is a discernible change to the sedimentation rate [vii] and therefore an increase in ESR. Further research in prior years on this specific form of testing was carried out mostly as an aid in the detection of malignancies. Other research showed further uses for this form of testing.
Type of Collection:
Finger prick
Patient preparation:
No Mobile phone use at least two hours prior to your collection time, this includes texting.
Kits:
Kits are available for this test for Practitioners only - Please phone us on (02) 9283 0807 or contact us if you would like to order a kit.
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