REPTILASE Meaning and
Definition
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Reptilase, also known as ancrod, is a proteolytic enzyme derived from the venom of the Malayan pit viper, Calloselasma rhodostoma. It is commonly used as a laboratory reagent and therapeutic medication.
In terms of its mechanism of action, reptilase acts as a thrombin-like enzyme and converts fibrinogen to fibrin monomers, leading to the formation of a fibrin clot. Unlike thrombin, reptilase does not have coagulant activity and does not activate platelets. This makes reptilase particularly advantageous in cases where thrombin might not be suitable or contraindicated.
Reptilase has various medical applications, most notably in coagulation tests and surgical settings. In coagulation tests, reptilase is utilized to differentiate between reptilase-sensitive and reptilase-insensitive factors involved in coagulation disorders. It can assist in diagnosing certain conditions, such as dysfibrinogenemia or liver diseases. In surgical procedures, reptilase is employed as a hemostatic agent to control bleeding. It can be used in situations where traditional hemostatic agents, like thrombin or sutures, may not be effective or feasible.
As with any medication, there may be potential side effects associated with the use of reptilase. These can include allergic reactions, bleeding or clotting abnormalities, or localized tissue damage. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution and follow proper medical guidelines when utilizing reptilase as a therapeutic intervention.
Overall, reptilase is a valuable tool in laboratory diagnostics and surgical procedures, providing alternative coagulation mechanisms and aiding in the prevention and management of bleeding complications.
Common Misspellings for REPTILASE
Etymology of REPTILASE
The word "Reptilase" is derived from two components: "repti-" and "-lase".
The prefix "repti-" comes from the Latin word "reptile", meaning "creeping". It refers to a class of animals that includes snakes, lizards, and turtles, among others. This prefix is used to indicate that the substance or product to which it is attached has some relation to reptiles.
The suffix "-lase" is derived from the word "enzyme". It is commonly used in the naming of enzymes to indicate that the substance is an enzyme. The suffix "-lase" itself is derived from the Greek word "lasis", meaning "action of loosening or releasing".
Combining these two components, "Reptilase" indicates an enzyme or substance that is related to reptiles and has an action of loosening or releasing.
Similar spelling words for REPTILASE
