Plasma fibrinogen can be measured in a variety of different ways. The modified Clauss method reference range is 0.9 to 1.7 g / l. Elevation above these ranges are very seldom seen in elite racehorses consistently performing at the highest levels. Heat precipitation method reference ranges are usually from 2 to 4 g / l and reflects inflammation. The elevation response usually lags the causal insult by about 24 hours.
Serial plasma fibrinogen evaluations are of great value in monitoring response to treatment and in decisions on when normal athletic activity can be resumed. It is important to remember that this is a non-specific indicator of inflammation and even minor entities such as sore heels or girth sores can result in misleading elevations, emphasising once again, the ever-present need for clinical examination.
Diagnostic haematology, basic biochemistry and inflammatory proteins, Inflammatory markers, Older foal screen, SAA (Serum amyloid A)
