Types of Coagulation Tests

Coagulation profile tests are carried out in order to assess the process and factors present in haemostasis. Haemostasis is a group of metabolic processes (which includes coagulation) that allow bleeding to stop. If bleeding doesn’t stop properly, a wound will not heal and the patient’s life could be compromised.

There are a few different types of coagulation tests typically carried out in the UK. They are:

Bleeding Time

This test analyses how quickly the blood vessels close up after a patient suffers a cut. The test itself involves making a small cut on the forearm. Doctors then measure how long it takes for the bleeding to stop. No pressure must be applied to the wound while the test is taking place, but the wound can be cleaned up afterwards.

Usually, bleeding is expected to stop in around 7-9 minutes. However, if abnormal bleeding occurs then the patient may need to be examined for:

• Low platelet count levels (Thrombocytopenia)
• Blood vessel defects
• Platelet aggregation defect

Prothrombin Time and Partial Thromboplastin Time

Both of these tests focus on all of the clotting factors (proteins) of the haemostasia.

The tests require the taking of blood to be analysed in a lab. The results of the test will demonstrate the amount of time the patient’s blood takes to form a clot. The average time is approximately 10-14 seconds.

These tests are useful in potentially diagnosing conditions such as:

• Bleeding disorders
• Bone marrow problems
• Liver problems
• Leukaemia
• A deficiency of vitamin K

Which test should be used depends on what symptoms the patient is presenting with. Sometimes both tests may be necessary if a more complete picture of the patient’s fibrin production is required.

Thrombin Time

This test measures how quickly the body is converting fibrinogen into fibrin during the presence of thrombin. 

 

Abnormal results may be a sign of:

• Abnormal fibrinogen
• Low levels of fibrinogen
• The presence of medications or other substances that are interfering with clotting
• Cancer
• Liver disease

Fibrin degradation products blood test

Fibrin degradation products (FDPs) are blood components which remain in the bloodstream once a clot has dissolved in the blood.

This test requires a blood sample. The results aim to show if the fibrinolytic system is working properly. The fibrinolytic system is responsible for regulating the blood flow by preventing any unnecessary blood clots from developing.

Normal results are usually below 10 mcg/mL. Abnormal results may be an indication of:

• Blood clotting problems
• Congenital heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Low oxygen levels in the blood
• Pregnancy problems like preeclampsia, placenta abruption, miscarriages
• Leukaemia

 

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