Lines of Zahn
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Definition
Lines of Zahn are a characteristic of thrombi. They have visible and microscopic alternating layers (laminations). Platelets mixed with fibrin form lighter layers. Red blood cells form darker layers. Sometimes, the term "lines of Zahn" only refers to the lighter layers.
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Evaluation
Lines of Zahn can be used to confirm diagnosis of a thrombus. Their presence implies thrombosis at a site of rapid blood flow that happened before death. They are more common in thrombi formed in the heart or aorta. In veins or smaller arteries, where flow is not as constant, they occur less frequently. They are also only seen on thrombi formed when blood is flowing. This is a distinguishing marker between thrombi that formed before death and after death.
History
Lines of Zahn are named after German–Swiss pathologist Friedrich Wilhelm Zahn.