APTT Test

What is the APTT Test?

When a blood artery ruptures, proteins in the blood known as clotting factors stimulate the creation of a blood clot, which promptly stops bleeding. Blood clots do not form correctly when there is an insufficient clotting factor in your blood. This could prevent the formation of clots properly and cause unwanted or excessive bleeding. Furthermore, when clotting factors do not function correctly, clots in blood arteries might develop when they should not. The APTT test is used to determine how long it takes your blood to clot.

What is the use of the APTT Test?

The APTT Test is used to assess your body's potential to form clots. The APTT test helps identify or rule out bleeding issues in patients with a bleeding condition. It may also be used to determine the source of bleeding in a patient with an unclear history or who is unable to stop bleeding. The test can also be used to track the efficacy of blood-clotting medications and to treat particular causes of irregular bleeding.


What is the need for an APTT test?

This test may be required if you bleed heavily when harmed or if you need to undergo a medical treatment, such as surgery. In contrast, if your blood doesn't clot normally, your doctor may order this test to determine the cause. This test can also be used to examine a patient's reaction to the blood thinner heparin.


What happens during an APTT examination?

To obtain a blood sample, a needle is placed into a vein in your arm. A little sample of your blood will be drawn and placed in a vial or test tube. You may be required to remain motionless for five minutes or more while the needle is inserted.


What are the risks of the APTT test?

There are no risks related to the test however, when the needle is inserted to draw blood, you might feel bruising or pain, but it will go very soon.


Understanding the APTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time) Test Results.

  • If your test result is greater than usual, you might be suffering from a bleeding illness or liver disease.
  • If your score is lower than usual, you may have an undetected disease that increases your chances of developing blood clots and miscarriage.
  • You may be requested to do more tests to identify what is causing these issues.

Test outcomes may differ based on who is tested, how the test is performed, and other factors. Do not be alarmed if your test findings are not as expected. Your healthcare practitioner will provide further information regarding the test findings.

Keep in mind that when an abnormal APTT test is detected, it does not definitely indicate any disease or condition. It solely offers information on your blood's capacity to clot. A number of disorders and ailments are linked to aberrant APTT readings.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is APTT?

APTT stands for Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time. It is a normal blood test that measures the total time it takes for blood to clot.

2. Why is the APTT test performed?

The APTT test is performed to check for blood clotting problems. It is used to monitor the effectiveness of blood-thinning medications like heparin, diagnose bleeding disorders like hemophilia, and to assess the risk of excessive bleeding during surgical procedures.

3. How is the APTT test performed?

The APTT test involves taking a sample of blood from a vein in the arm. The blood is mixed with a substance that activates the clotting process, and the time it takes for the blood to clot is measured.

4. What is a normal APTT result?

The normal range for APTT varies depending on the laboratory performing the test but generally falls between 25 and 35 seconds.

5. What do abnormal APTT results mean?

Abnormal APTT results can indicate a clotting disorder, a bleeding disorder, or the presence of a medication that affects blood clotting. Further testing may be required to diagnose the underlying cause.

6. Can anything affect APTT results?

Yes, certain medications like heparin and warfarin can affect APTT results. Other factors that may affect APTT results include liver disease, vitamin K deficiency, and lupus anticoagulant.

7. Is it necessary to fast before taking an APTT blood test?

You might need to fast before the test. Ask your doctor. Be sure your doctor is aware of all medications, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.

8. How is APTT used to monitor heparin therapy?

APTT is used to monitor heparin therapy by measuring the time it takes for blood to clot after heparin is administered. The goal is to keep the APTT within a therapeutic range that prevents blood clots while avoiding excessive bleeding.

9. What is the APTT test cost?

The APTT Test price ranges from Rs. 300 to Rs. 600. However, the cost might vary from place to place.

10. Where can I get APTT test?

You can get an APTT test at Medicover Hospitals.