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More specifically, this analysis is performed on the blood sample to evaluate the prothrombin time (PT) and the functioning of the patient's coagulation process (extrinsic route) if a hemorrhagic pathology is suspected.
Prothrombin is a glycoprotein produced by the liver that is involved in the blood clotting process. In the event of a blood vessel injury, the conversion of prothrombin (factor II) to thrombin (factor IIa) occurs. This triggers a complex of chain reactions that leads to the formation of a blood clot.
Quick's time test is also useful in monitoring oral anticoagulant drug (OTA) therapies.
produced by the liver which participates in the blood clotting process. In the event of a blood vessel injury, a rapid conversion of prothrombin (factor II) to thrombin (factor IIa) occurs, which, in turn, converts fibrinogen into an insoluble fibrin polymer. The chain reaction thus triggered leads to the formation of a blood clot.. For this purpose, specific substances are added to the sample, such as citrate, calcium and tissue thromboplastin.
The reference values may vary slightly from laboratory to laboratory, in relation to the analytical methods adopted, but are generally between 11 and 13 seconds. A Quick time greater than the reference time indicates that the blood takes longer than normal to clot. A low Quick time, on the other hand, indicates that the blood clots faster than normal.
Your doctor may order prothrombin time testing to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant drugs (eg, warfarin) or to help diagnose haemostatic disorders.