Partial Thromboplastin Time
Definition
The partial thromboplastin time (PTT) test is a blood test that is done to investigate bleeding disorders and to monitor patients taking an anticlotting drug (heparin).
Purpose
Diagnosis
Blood clotting (coagulation) depends on the action of substances in the blood called clotting factors. Measuring the partial thromboplastin time helps to assess which specific clotting factors may be missing or defective.
Monitoring
Certain surgical procedures and diseases cause blood clots to form within blood vessels. Heparin is used to treat these clots. The PTT test can be used to monitor the effect of heparin on a patient's coagulation system.
Precautions
Certain medications besides heparin can affect the results of the PPT test. These include antihistamines, vitamin C (ascorbic acid),
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