Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT), also called partial thromboplastin time (PTT), is a screening test that helps evaluate a person’s ability to form blood clots appropriately.

This test is done to detect bleeding and clotting disorders and to monitor the treatment with blood-thinning medicines. In cases of unexplained bleeding, inappropriate blood clotting, or recurrent miscarriages, and sometimes before a scheduled surgery, an aPTT test is performed. These tests are usually performed with other tests like prothrombin time and thrombin time to analyze the clotting time accurately.

aPTT Test cost ranges from ₹550. Our aPTT Test cost includes the fastest home sample collection within 60 minutes of booking the test. Orange Health Labs offers competitive pricing with the added benefit of sample collection from the comfort of your home. Please note that the test price may vary based on your location and the specific laboratory chosen. Orange Health Lab’s aPTT Test cost in various cities is as follows:

To ensure accuracy of the aPTT test results, you should follow these precautions before the test:

Pre-requisites: Fasting is not required for a aPTT test, so you can eat and drink normally before your appointment. However, you must inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as they may affect the test results.

The aPTT test involves the collection of a blood sample. Once you book the test with Orange Health Labs, a skilled and experienced eMedic will arrive at your desired location for sample collection. The testing procedure steps are as follows:

• Preparation: The eMedic will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. You will be asked to sit comfortably in a chair.

• Site Selection: A suitable vein, usually in the inner elbow area, will be selected and the skin in this area will be cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.

• Needle Insertion: A needle will be inserted in the vein and blood will be drawn. You might feel a mild pinch or sting during this step.

• Blood Collection: The required amount of blood will be collected in a vial.

• Needle Removal: The eMedic will remove the needle and apply pressure on the needle insertion site with a gauze pad to stop any bleeding.

• Bandaging: Lastly, a small bandage will be placed over the puncture site to protect it.

Doctors recommend the aPTT test for various reasons, including:

- Diagnosing bleeding disorders such as hemophilia A and B or von Willebrand disease.

- Monitoring anticoagulant therapy, especially if you are on heparin.

- Investigating unexplained bleeding or clotting issues.

- Preoperative screening for individuals with a history of excessive bleeding.

- Evaluating recurrent miscarriages, which may indicate clotting abnormalities.

A aPTT test is recommended for a wide range of health conditions. Individuals who may benefit from regular aPTT testing include:

• People with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders should regularly get a aPTT done as these conditions can affect blood cell counts and overall function.

• Individuals with concerning symptoms, like persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, unusual bruising, frequent infections, or prolonged fever can undergo a aPTT test to identify underlying causes such as infections or anaemia.

• Some medications, such as chemotherapy or immunosuppressive drugs, can impact blood cell production. A aPTT helps track the effects of these medicines and ensures treatment is safely managed.

• During pregnancy, monitoring blood cell levels is crucial to ensure both maternal and foetal health.

• People with a family history of blood disorders or blood cancers should get the aPTT test done regularly to facilitate early diagnosis of the conditions.

This test measures the time taken by the blood to form a clot after the addition of substances (reagents) that activate the clot formation. It evaluates the function of blood coagulation factors I, II, V, XII, VIII, IX, X, and XI, along with other factors like Prekallikrein (PK) and High Molecular Weight Kininogen (HK), that form parts of the intrinsic and common coagulation pathways.

Signs that indicate you may need a aPTT test include:

• Unexplained bleeding or bruising

• Blood clots in veins or arteries

• Frequent or excessive nosebleeds

• Recurrent miscarriages

• Monitoring of anticoagulant therapy

• Liver disease affecting clotting factors

A prolonged aPTT may indicate:

• Liver disease

• Vitamin K deficiency

• Hemophilia A or B

• von Willebrand disease

• Lupus anticoagulant presence

• Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)

A shortened aPTT may indicate:

• Risk of excessive clotting (hypercoagulable state)

• Pregnancy-related changes in clotting factors

• High levels of factor VIII (acute phase reaction)

Several factors can influence the aPTT test results, including:

• Blood-thinning medications such as heparin or warfarin

• Liver disease affecting clotting factor production

• Vitamin K deficiency

• Pregnancy-related changes in blood clotting factors

• Blood disorders such as hemophilia

Some common diseases that can be diagnosed with a aPTT Test include:

• Anaemia

• Infections

• Leukaemia

• Thrombocytopenia

• Autoimmune diseases

• Polycythaemia

• Thrombocytosis

Untreated abnormalities in aPTT levels can lead to a variety of serious complications that may affect overall health. Here is how abnormal cell counts in aPTT can cause health complications:

RBCs: High RBC levels, known as polycythaemia, can lead to complications such as blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and hypertension. Conversely, low RBC levels, or anaemia, may result in fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and, in severe cases, is associated with heart failure.

WBCs: An elevated WBC count can be associated with chronic inflammation and blood cancers like leukaemia. On the other hand, low WBC level, or leukopenia, is associated with weak immunity, frequent infections, and delayed wound healing. 10

Platelets: High platelet counts, called thrombocytosis, can lead to severe complications like the formation of blood clots and stroke. Low platelet levels, known as thrombocytopenia, can cause bleeding, easy bruising, petechiae (tiny red spots), and even internal haemorrhage in severe cases.

To maintain proper blood clotting function, consider these lifestyle tips:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in Vitamin K (leafy greens, broccoli, etc.)

• Stay hydrated

• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

• Monitor medications, especially blood thinners

• Exercise regularly to maintain circulation