What diseases can be detected by the four coagulation tests?

Dec 17, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
The four coagulation tests, including PT, APTT, Fib, and TT, are primarily used to assess whether coagulation function is normal. They are commonly employed as auxiliary diagnostic tools for conditions such as vitamin K deficiency, viral hepatitis, hemophilia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and thromboembolic diseases. However, these tests can only serve as辅助诊断 methods, and further examinations are necessary if abnormal results are obtained.

Generally, the coagulation panel (four parameters) is a routine blood test that includes prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen (Fib), and thrombin time (TT), primarily used to evaluate coagulation function. The coagulation panel can be used to diagnose conditions such as vitamin K deficiency, viral hepatitis, hemophilia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and thromboembolism. If experiencing any discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K deficiency refers to a condition caused by insufficient vitamin K, which may be related to malnutrition, gastrointestinal disorders, and other factors. The main manifestations include gum bleeding and nosebleeds. During the above tests, patients may show prolonged prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time, along with impaired synthesis of coagulation factors.

2. Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis includes types such as hepatitis A and hepatitis B. These diseases can impair liver and spleen function, leading to a tendency to bleed, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as jaundice and ascites. During coagulation testing, patients may show prolonged prothrombin time, indicating abnormalities in the extrinsic coagulation pathway.

3. Hemophilia

Hemophilia includes hemophilia A and hemophilia B. Hemophilia A is mainly caused by a deficiency of coagulation factor VIII, while hemophilia B results from a deficiency of coagulation factor IX. The primary manifestations include bleeding after trauma or spontaneous bleeding. Testing may show prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, indicating abnormalities in the intrinsic coagulation pathway.

4. Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

Disseminated intravascular coagulation is a common coagulation disorder syndrome, mainly associated with trauma, severe infections, and other factors. When systemic bleeding and microcirculatory failure occur, patients may experience bleeding in multiple areas, such as gum bleeding and skin hemorrhages, and even shock. Testing may reveal abnormalities in all four coagulation parameters, indicating a disordered systemic coagulation system.

5. Thromboembolism

Thromboembolism occurs when blood abnormally clots within the cardiovascular system due to various causes, often related to genetic and environmental factors. Patients may experience symptoms such as joint pain and swelling. Testing may indicate prolonged fibrinogen and thrombin time, with blood in a hypercoagulable state.

It should be noted that the coagulation panel is only an auxiliary diagnostic tool and cannot provide a definitive diagnosis. Therefore, individuals with abnormal results should combine their medical history and other tests for comprehensive analysis to promptly identify and address the underlying cause.