streptokinase

An extracellular metalloenzyme from hemolytic streptococci that cleaves plasminogen, producing plasmin, which causes the liquefaction of fibrin (same activity as staphylokinase and urokinase); thus, used in the removal of clots. SYN: plasminokinase, streptococcal fibrinolysin.

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strep·to·ki·nase .strep-tō-'kī-.nās, -.nāz n a proteolytic enzyme produced by hemolytic streptococci that promotes the dissolution of blood clots by activating plasminogen to produce plasmin see VARIDASE

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n.

an enzyme produced by some haemolytic bacteria of the genus Streptococcus that is capable of liquefying blood clots (see also fibrinolytic). It is injected to treat blockage of blood vessels, including deep vein thrombosis, infarction, and pulmonary embolism. Side-effects may include digestive upsets, haemorrhage, and fever. It is also used in combination with streptodornase, applied topically, to remove slough and blood clot and thus promote healing of ulcers. Trade names: Kabikinase, Streptase, Varidase Topical.

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strep·to·ki·nase (SK) (strep″to-kiґnās) [streptococcus + kinase] a protein produced by β-hemolytic streptococci; although it has no intrinsic enzymatic activity, it binds plasminogen and causes cleavage of that molecule to plasmin. It is used as a thrombolytic agent in the treatment of acute coronary arterial thrombosis, acute pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, and acute arterial thromboembolism or thrombosis, administered intravenously. It is also used to clear obstructed arteriovenous cannulae.