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Coagulation Profile

The coagulation profile is a blood test that measures the interval of time for several stages of the blood clotting cycle. Values are reported in seconds (the time it takes for the blood to clot). Also referred to as the Prothrombin Time (PT) and Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT), these tests give the doctor information pertaining to liver function (the liver produces clotting factors needed to make blood coagulate).

Conditions where the coagulation profile is of importance include:

  • Assessment of liver function
  • Pre-operative screening test, before any surgery
  • Following anticoagulation in those patients taking oral anticoagulants (Warfarin)
  • Establishing coagulation status for patients needing future anticoagulation therapy
  • Testing coagulation in patients with a disease known to interfere with normal coagulation

The coagulation profile is performed from a venipuncture specimen.

Approximate Normal Values:

  • Prothrombin Time (PT) = 11.0 to 12.5 seconds (results vary with regard to controls). Elevated above normal in patients taking blood thinners (Warfarin) or in those who are vitamin K deficient. Therapeutic anticoagulation is often approximately 1.5 times the normal prothrombin time (or a PT of about 17-18).
  • Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) = 25 to 50 seconds (results may vary with regard to controls). Elevated in some cases of severe liver disease (cirrhosis).

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