Tests of coagulation

Question 1

What coagulation test will indicate there is a problem with platelet function?

Answer 1

Bleeding time will be increased; there will be no change in PT or PTT

Question 2

A patient has bleeding from the gums, epistaxis, petechiae, and purpura; what is the likely defect in coagulation?

Answer 2

These describe the microhemorrhages associated with a platelet disorder; there may or may not be a decreased number of platelets

Question 3

Which platelet disorder has an increased bleeding time but normal platelet count?

Answer 3

Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia; all have an increased bleeding time, whereas Bernard-Soulier disease, immune thrombocytopenic purpura, and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura have decreased platelet counts

• Memory aid:*
• Gla_N_zma_NN_ – _N_ormal platelet