What is streptokinase?

Streptokinase is an enzyme produced by certain strains of the bacterium Streptococcus. It acts as a fibrinolytic agent, promoting the breakdown of blood clots by converting plasminogen into plasmin, which dissolves fibrin. Streptokinase is primarily used in medical settings to treat conditions like myocardial infarction (heart attack) and pulmonary embolism. However, its use has declined with the advent of more targeted thrombolytic agents and concerns about allergic reactions.