Phospholipase A2-induced coagulation abnormalities after bee sting

We will examine the correlation between various bee venom phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) concentrations and several parameters of coagulation in human plasma in order to offer a rationale for requesting a particular laboratory coagulation test after bee sting(s). We will also evaluate in vitro the influence of clinically available drugs with a noncompetitive inhibitory effect on PLA(2) on the anticoagulant effect of bee venom PLA(2). Prothrombin index (PTi), partial thromboplastin time (PTT), antithrombin III (AT III), soluble fibrin monomers (SFM), the activity of coagulation factors I, II, V, and VIII, and thrombelastography (TEG) parameters (split point [Sp], reaction time [R], kinetic time [K], coagulation time [R + K], maximal amplitude [MA], and the growth angle [alpha]) were determined before and after addition of 1.4, 2.7, and 4.1 units (1, 2, and 3 mu g protein respectively) of bee venom PLA(2). Linear regression was used to determine the significance of the relationship between these coagulation parameters and bee venom PLA(2) concentrations used. To study the influence of ketamine, lidocaine, magnesium, furosemide, and cromolyn on the anticoagulant effect of bee venom PLA(2), PTi and factor II- and V-activities were measured before and after addition of 2.7 units of PLA(2) and PLA(2) plus one of the tested substances. Determinations of F II, PTi, F V,and FVIII showed a negative correlation to bee venom PLA(2) concentration (r = -0.88, -0.86, -0.81, and -0.79 respectively). A positive correlation was found for PTT (r = 0.69). FII- activity and PTi correlated better with bee venom PLA(2) concentration than other parameters. F I, AT III, and SFM showed no changes. Whereas Sp, R, and K were prolonged by bee venom PLA(2) and alpha was reduced, there was no correlation to the PLA(2) concentration. Addition of none of the 5 substances could correct the effects of bee venom PLA(2) on the coagulation. In a patient with toxic reaction or a severe anaphylactic reaction after bee sting(s) we suggest determinations of FII and/or PTi. This will allow a quick and economical assessment of coagulation abnormalities after bee sting(s). Noncompetitive PLA(2)-inhibitors (ketamine, lidocaine, magnesium, furosemide, and cromolyn) are unable to correct in vitro the anticoagulant effect of bee venom PLA(2). They cannot be recommended at this stage for this purpose. Further investigations with competitive PLA(2)-inhibitors are warranted. Copyright (C) 2000 by W.B. Saunders Company.