Coagulation Pathway
The coagulation pathway is a complex series of processes that lead to blood clotting, essential for stopping bleeding. It involves various proteins known as clotting factors, which work together in a cascade effect. When a blood vessel is injured, these factors are activated, ultimately forming a fibrin mesh that stabilizes the clot.
There are two main pathways in coagulation: the intrinsic pathway and the extrinsic pathway. The intrinsic pathway is triggered by damage to the blood vessel, while the extrinsic pathway is activated by external trauma. Both pathways converge to form a common pathway, leading to the formation of a stable blood clot.