PARTIAL THROMBOPLASTIN TIME

The PTT test is also known as the aPTT test. It is a laboratory examination of the blood clotting system. The time it takes for blood to coagulate can be determined by it, thus helping identify haemorrhagic and thrombotic conditions. 

During this test, chemicals known as thromboplastins are added to samples of the patient’s blood; this produces reactions that culminate into formation of clots. By measuring how long it takes for the blood to coagulate, we obtain information about whether there is adequate functioning of the coagulation cascade, which helps control normal haemorrhage as well as bleeding or clotting issues. 

The PTT test is a measure of how long it takes for blood to form a clot after adding thromboplastin during this assay. Such measurements are usually given in seconds.

Normally, the PTT test is done: 

1. Before surgery to determine if you are likely to bleed excessively 

2. When you are on anticoagulant drugs like heparin or warfarin. 

3. In case of bleeding or clotting problems such as haemophilia or deep vein thrombosis 

4. For monitoring liver function since it produces clotting factors 

Although the PTT test is generally safe, it has some risks and limitations as follows: 

1. Bleeding or bruising at the site where blood was sampled 

2. Infection or inflammation at the sampled blood’s place 

3. It may not accurately reflect bleeding risk or propensity for clot formation in certain conditions. 

4. The effect of certain drugs such as anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents may interfere on this test. 

5. This test cannot identify all bleeding disorders and clotting abnormalities. 

The following parameters are assessed by aPTT: 

1. Time required for blood to coagulate (in seconds) 

2. Activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) 

3. Prothrombin time (PT) 

4. International normalized ratio (INR) 

The test may detect the following in medical practitioners: 

1. Clotting times that are either too long or too short 

2. Abnormalities in the blood clotting sequence 

3. Any bleeding or clotting diseases 

PTT Testing is usually recommended for individuals who: 

1. Are on anticoagulant medication 

2. Have a family history of bleeding or clotting disorders 

3. Have a medical condition like liver disease or haemophilia that affects blood clotting 

4. Are going to have surgery or any other invasive procedures performed on them 

The PTT test provides significant information regarding your body’s blood clotting system and can help in many ways such as: 

1. Detect bleeding or clotting diseases 

2. Evaluate the effectiveness of anticoagulation therapy 

3. Assess the risk of bleeding or clotting incidents. 

4. Guide treatment choices for some health conditions. 

PTT tests are helpful in detecting various diseases such as; 

1. Haemophilia A, B and so forth which are bleeding disorders 

2. Deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism et cetera which are clotting disorders 

3. Liver damage/illness 

4. Vitamin K Deficiency 

To prepare for the test, you should: 

1. Refrain from eating or drinking anything within 8 to 12 hours prior to testing. 

2. Let your doctor know about any drugs or food supplements you are on. 

3. Wear a short-sleeved shirt to allow for drawing of blood easily. 

4. Do not move or tense during the process of collection. 

Prerequisites: None 

Eligibility: The exam is open to everyone, but it is mainly recommended for patients with bleeding or clotting problems and those who take anticoagulants. 

Procedure for Taking the Test: The test involves drawing a blood sample from your arm vein using a needle and syringe. 

Caution Before the Test: Make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you have bleeding disorders, clotting problems, or using any medication that may affect the results.