🔬 What is the Test?
The Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT or PTTK) test measures how long it takes for blood to clot. It evaluates the function of certain clotting factors in the intrinsic and common pathways of the coagulation cascade.
📊 Normal Ranges:
APTT: 25 – 35 seconds (varies by laboratory)
(A prolonged APTT may indicate a bleeding disorder or other clotting abnormalities.)
🎯 Purpose of the Test:
✅ Diagnoses bleeding disorders (e.g., Hemophilia, von Willebrand Disease)
✅ Monitors heparin therapy (a blood-thinning medication)
✅ Evaluates unexplained bleeding or clotting issues
✅ Assesses liver function (since the liver produces clotting factors)
✅ Helps diagnose conditions like Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
🩺 When is it Recommended?
🔹 Before surgery to check clotting function
🔹 For patients on heparin therapy to monitor anticoagulation levels
🔹 In cases of frequent or unexplained bleeding or bruising
🔹 For evaluating suspected clotting disorders
📝 How is the Test Done?
1️⃣ Blood Sample Collection – A blood sample is drawn from a vein.
2️⃣ Laboratory Analysis – Measures the time it takes for blood to clot after adding specific reagents.
3️⃣ Result Interpretation – Compared against normal ranges to assess clotting function.
⚠️ What Do Abnormal Results Mean?
📉 Shortened APTT (<25 sec):
May indicate risk of excessive clotting (thrombosis)
📈 Prolonged APTT (>35 sec):
Bleeding disorders (e.g., Hemophilia, von Willebrand Disease)
Liver disease (reduced clotting factor production)
Heparin therapy effects
Vitamin K deficiency
📌 Infographic Design Idea:
✔ Medical color scheme (blue, red, and white)
✔ Illustration of blood clotting process
✔ Flowchart explaining APTT testing and interpretation
✔ Table summarizing normal vs. abnormal results and their clinical significance