Prothrombin Time: Why It Is Done
Content provided by Healthwise
Why It Is Done
Prothrombin time (PT) is measured to:
- Find a cause for abnormal bleeding or bruising.
- Check to see if blood-thinning medicine, such as warfarin (Coumadin), is working. If the test is done for this purpose, a PT may be done every day at first. When the correct dose of medicine is found, you will not need so many tests.
- Check for low levels of blood clotting factors. The lack of some clotting factors can cause bleeding disorders such as hemophilia, which is passed in families (inherited).
- Check for a low level of vitamin K. Vitamin K is needed to make prothrombin and other clotting factors.
- Check how well the liver is working. Prothrombin levels are checked along with other liver tests, such as aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase.
- Check to see if the body is using up its clotting factors so quickly that the blood cannot clot and bleeding does not stop. This may mean the person has disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
| Last updated: | September 15, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Robin Parks, MS |
| Reviewed By: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine, Brian Leber, MDCM, FRCPC - Hematology |
| Editors: | Maria Essig, Tracy Landauer |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
