The Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time test is essential to prevent the dangerous clots

The Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time Test

The aPTT test abbreviated for the Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time test is a test that observes the factors that may create a blood clot in the body by noticing how well they work. It is often performed along with another test called a Prothrombin Period (PT) test that aims at an additional group of clotting factors. Together, these tests provide the doctor with a more complete picture of what occurs when a clot is created in your body.

These tests are usually prescribed to check for bleeding disorders, for instance, von Willebrand disease or hemophilia. Signs of bleeding disorders may include rapidly bleeding or bruises, blood clots that develop when they are not anticipated, blood in your stool or urine, gums that bleed quickly, heavy menstrual periods in women, nosebleeds, swelling or discomfort in your joints.

When does one need the Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time test?

The Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time test is also need for patients under the heparin therapy. A drug is used to avoid or cure blood clots in heparin therapy after a patient has had a heart attack or stroke. The PTT test helps in the diagnosis process by making sure that the patients can be prescribed with the right dosage. The tests are also essential to prevent the dangerous clots, but still need the blood to clot when it is needed by the body. Some immune system problems make your blood clots more likely to form especially in women, which may also contribute to miscarriage. The test is also required to search for an issue with the immune system. It is also used to check on the functioning of the liver because it easily induces clotting factors.    

Let the doctor know about any medications, supplements, herbs, or vitamins you need, or any other prescribed, or illicit drugs. Many popular medications, such as blood thinners, aspirin, and antihistamines, can influence the test outcomes.

How is the Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time test performed?

This procedure is a simple blood test, and it only takes a few minutes. The lab tech cleans and wipes the skin with antiseptic where the needle is pricked in. Then wraps a rubber band across the upper arm, this causes pressure that makes the veins fill with blood. A small needle is then pushed into a vein, normally on the inside of the arm or the forearm or on the back of the hand. After drawing your blood, the rubber brace is cut loose and a bandage is placed on the injecting point. 

Normally, when the needle goes in, a pinch more like an ant bite is experienced by the patient. This is normally the worst of it, but since the blood has been drawn, there's a small chance of reactions like bleeding or swelling, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, infection.

Other tests and test results

Some other tests may be conducted as well that includes Dilute Russell Viper Venom Test (DRVVT)which is to test for lupus anticoagulant. lupus anticoagulant is a sign that for an immune system problem. Platelet count if the patient is under the heparin therapy and a von Willebrand test to check and if the patient is suffering from the von Willebrand disease.

These checks show how many seconds it takes for the blood to create a clot. Consultation with the doctor will help the patient understand what the numbers in the report mean. If the numbers are higher than normal, this could indicate a number of things, from bleeding illness to liver disease. Typically, the patient may have to go through other examinations at the same moment, based on what the doctor is pointing for. If the numbers are lower than the normal, which is rarely the case, there is a higher chance of getting blood clots and having multiple miscarriages for women. 

About the Author(s)

Princy A. J

Princy holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the prestigious Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. University at Chennai, India. After a successful academic record, she pursued her passion for writing. A thorough professional and enthusiastic writer, she enjoys writing on various categories and advancements in the global industries. She plays an instrumental role in writing about current updates, news, blogs, and trends.