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Plasminogen

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

Plasminogen is a precursor of plasmin, an enzyme that plays a crucial role in fibrinolysis, the process of breaking down blood clots.

Quick summary

Plasminogen levels help diagnose and monitor conditions related to blood clotting and fibrinolysis.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
%
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Plasminogen, Siemens Plasminogen, Stago Plasminogen
interpretation: {"text":"May indicate a deficiency in the fibrinolytic system, potentially leading to thrombosis or other clotting disorders.","label":"Low Levels"}; {"text":"May suggest increased fibrinolytic activity, associated with bleeding disorders or conditions such as liver disease.","label":"High Levels"}

Plasminogen is a glycoprotein synthesized in the liver and circulates in the blood as an inactive precursor. It is converted to plasmin by tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA). Plasmin then degrades fibrin, the main component of blood clots, leading to clot dissolution.

Low levels of plasminogen can indicate a deficiency in the fibrinolytic system, potentially leading to thrombosis or other clotting disorders. Conversely, high levels may suggest increased fibrinolytic activity, which can be associated with bleeding disorders or conditions such as liver disease.

The plasminogen test is often used in conjunction with other coagulation tests to diagnose and monitor conditions such as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), liver disease, and certain inherited disorders affecting the fibrinolytic system.

Frequently asked questions

What is the normal range for plasminogen levels?
The normal range for plasminogen levels is typically between 70–120%.
How is plasminogen testing used in clinical practice?
Plasminogen testing is used to diagnose and monitor conditions related to blood clotting and fibrinolysis, such as DIC and liver disease.
  1. 1
    Plasminogen - Lab Tests OnlineSource
  2. 2
    Role of Plasminogen in FibrinolysisSource

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy