What is the difference between pt ptt and inr

An INR test ensures whether Coumadin is producing its desired effect on the patient. Coumadin deals with the coagulation cascade, and it also aids in inhibiting blood clot formation. It is usually prescribed for people with atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Coumadin helps dissolve the unnecessary blood clots that might block the veins and arteries. An INR test may also be ordered when a patient shows signs and symptoms of unusual bleeding even if he does not take any anticoagulant drugs.

A doctor may order an INR test if the patient has nosebleeds, heavy menstrual periods, bleeding gums, bruises, and the presence of blood in the stool. If the result shows a prolonged INR, it means that clot formation is taking too long. Those people with liver diseases and vitamin K deficiencies often have a prolonged INR.

An APTT test is done to help determine the unexplained bleeding of a patient. It is also done to detect thromboembolisms and liver disease. If a person has recurrent miscarriages and thrombotic episodes, an APTT test is performed to evaluate for anticardiolipin antibodies or lupus anticoagulant.

To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. Updated visitor guidelines. Top of the page. Test Overview Prothrombin time PT is a blood test that measures how long it takes blood to clot. The prothrombin time is made longer by: Blood-thinning medicine, such as warfarin. Low levels of blood clotting factors. A change in the activity of any of the clotting factors.

The absence of any of the clotting factors. Other substances, called inhibitors, that affect the clotting factors. An increase in the use of the clotting factors. Check the effects of warfarin Coumadin. You will have the test regularly to make sure you are taking the right dose. 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 if it is safe to do a procedure or surgery that might cause bleeding.

It is often used in the management of bleeding disorders. People who smoke often have cold hands and feet. What might explain this condition in terms of Is the vertebral artery a branch of the aortic arch? What conditions contribute to elevated blood levels of alkaline phosphatase?

Are lymphocytes produced in the bone marrow and then migrate to the thymus gland and lymph nodes What is heart disease? For a blood sample from a vein: A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle.

For a blood sample from a fingertip: A fingertip test may be done in a provider's office or in your home. During this test, you or your provider will: Use a small needle to puncture your fingertip Collect a drop of blood and place it onto a test strip or other special instrument Place the instrument or test strip into a device that calculates the results.

At-home devices are small and lightweight. Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test? Are there any risks to the test? What do the results mean? If you are taking warfarin: INR levels that are too low may mean you are at risk for dangerous blood clots. INR levels that are too high may mean you are at risk for dangerous bleeding. Your health care provider will probably change your dose of warfarin to reduce these risks. If you are not taking warfarin and your INR or prothrombin time results were not normal, it may mean one of the following conditions: A bleeding disorder, a condition in which the body can't clot blood properly, causing excessive bleeding A clotting disorder, a condition in which the body forms excessive clots in arteries or veins Liver disease Vitamin K deficiency.

Vitamin K plays an important role in blood clotting. References American Society of Hematology [Internet]. Washington D.