Definition:
Prothrombin time (PT) is a blood test that measures the time it takes for the liquid portion (plasma) of your blood to clot. See also: Partial thromboplastin time (PTT)
Alternative Names:
PT; Pro-time
How the test is performed:
The health care provider uses a needle to take blood from one of your veins. The blood collects into an airtight container. You may be given a bandage to stop any bleeding. If you are taking a medicine called heparin, you will be watched for signs of bleeding. The laboratory specialist will add chemicals to the blood sample and see how long it takes for the plasma to clot.
How to prepare for the test:
Your doctor may tell you to stop taking certain drugs before the test. For example, blood thinners can affect the results of this test. Do not stop taking any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
How the test will feel:
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Why the test is performed:
Your doctor may order this test if you have signs of a blood clotting disorder. When you bleed, the body launches a series of activities that help the blood clot. This is called the coagulation cascade. The PT test looks at special proteins (called coagulation factors) that are involved in this event, and measures their ability to help blood clot. It measures: Factor I (fibrinogen) Factor II (prothrombin) Factor V Factor VII Factor X
References:
Schafer AI. Approach to the patient with bleeding and thrombosis. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 178.
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