Markers of thrombotic activity in arterial disease.

Levels of the platelet degranulation product beta-thromboglobulin (BTG) and the fibrinogen degradation product fibrinopeptide A (FPA) were measured in 26 asymptomatic subjects (group 1), 17 patients with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) (group 2), and 12 patients with PVD and bypass grafts (group 3). Mean BTG and FPA levels were elevated in both groups 2 and 3, indicating increased thrombotic activity in patients with PVD. Results of serial BTG and FPA assays in group 3 patients suggested a trend downward. These markers may be useful for estimating disease severity and prognosis, extent of graft healing and patency, and efficacy of therapeutic intervention.