Coagulogram
Coagulogram, or hemostasiogram, is a comprehensive laboratory test aimed at evaluating the blood clotting system (hemostasis). This test helps detect clotting disorders that may lead to bleeding or thrombosis, and assess the risk of complications in various diseases and before surgical interventions.
What the coagulogram shows
The coagulogram assesses key parameters of the coagulation and anticoagulation systems, including:
- Prothrombin time (PT) — the time it takes for blood plasma to clot, reflecting the activity of clotting factors.
- Prothrombin index (PTI) — the ratio of normal prothrombin time to the patient’s time, expressed as a percentage.
- International normalized ratio (INR) — a standardized measure of clotting, especially important when taking anticoagulants.
- Activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) — evaluates the intrinsic pathway of blood coagulation.
- Thrombin time (TT) — the time for fibrinogen to convert to fibrin.
- Fibrinogen — a protein involved in clot formation.
- D-dimer — a fibrin degradation product, indicating thrombus formation and fibrinolysis activity.
- Antithrombin III — a natural inhibitor of coagulation regulating the clotting process.
Indications for coagulogram
- Preparation for surgeries and invasive procedures.
- Assessment of bleeding or thrombosis risk.
- Pregnancy, especially with complications.
- Recurrent miscarriages.
- Liver, kidney, and vascular diseases.
- Varicose veins, heart attack, stroke.
- Heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Long-term use of glucocorticosteroids, oral contraceptives, and anticoagulants.
Preparation for the test
- Blood should be taken fasting, preferably in the morning.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals 24 hours before the test.
- Avoid physical exertion and stress before the test.
- Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.
Test significance
Coagulogram results help identify:
- Increased blood clotting — risk of thrombosis.
- Decreased blood clotting — tendency to bleed.
- Disorders in the function of individual clotting factors.
The coagulogram is an important and informative test necessary for assessing the blood clotting system, preventing complications, and monitoring therapy in various diseases.