Prothrombin test. Prothrombin according to Quick: what kind of analysis is it?
It's not an easy matter. The reason is that the molecules of this protein are quite complex and large, they break down easily, so it is very difficult to separate them from other proteins. So experts judge its presence by its activity. For this purpose in laboratories the so-called prothrombin index: first, the prothrombin time is calculated, that is, the duration of clot formation, when adding a set amount of activators (thromboplastin and calcium chloride). Next, the indicator obtained from the patient is compared with the average indicator. The norm is 93-107%.
With prothrombin, bleeding may occur, and sometimes even dangerous. Increased quantity This protein is fraught with thrombosis, and this in turn leads to heart attacks and strokes (especially with atherosclerosis). Prothrombin itself has no negative effect on anything. But since blood clotting depends on it, it is necessary to ensure that it is normal.
In order to reduce the concentration of prothrombin in the blood, the patient should consume as much as possible large quantity liquids: soups, juices, water. It is also advisable to include fruits and vegetables in your diet. If these conditions are met, it will not thicken, and the likelihood of thrombosis will be reduced to zero.
In addition, it is known that the biosynthesis of prothrombin is regulated by vitamin K. Based on this, the consumption of foods containing this vitamin should be reduced. These include radish, chokeberry, legumes, bananas. Give up and medicinal herbs, which increase blood clotting: this includes plantain, nettle, yarrow, tansy, immortelle and cudweed.
Sources:
- blood for prothrombin
Human blood is unique in its composition, and its effect on the body is paramount. The composition of blood plasma includes many particles and microbodies that are vital for our body. The absence of some type of corpuscle, its smaller or larger quantity can lead to extremely severe and even fatal dangerous diseases. Knowing how to treat can help avoid dire consequences.
Instructions
A decrease or increase in the level of platelets in the blood is equally bad for. If you have bleeding, i.e. bleeding from the gums, rectum, heavy menstrual bleeding, bruises and hematomas constantly appear, this may be a sign that the number of platelets in the blood is reduced. Be sure to get tested. If the result is less than 140,000, this is thrombocytopenia, a course of treatment is necessary.
The first thing you should pay attention to is your diet. Nutrition should be healthy and nutritious. Pickled foods and spicy foods are contraindicated for you. Make sure that among the foods you eat, there are those rich in vitamins A, C, and P.
Eat almonds and peanuts, make tea from lingonberry leaves - this will help improve blood clotting characteristics.
Another remedy in the fight against thrombocytopenia can be decoctions of medicinal herbs and plants - use white acacia flowers, black rowan, bergenia root, barberry leaves, oak bark, grape leaves.
Wounds, scratches and surgical operations, which are accompanied by blood loss, would expose a person to mortal danger if the blood could not clot and form blood clots. One of these proteins that prevents huge blood loss is prothrombin. The level of prothrombin in the blood has its own indicators. Exceeding it indicates too much of this protein in the blood, which causes blood thickening and can provoke the formation of blood clots. Lack of prothrombin is no less life-threatening, since during the slightest bleeding a person can lose a large amount of blood. What is the established norm of prothrombin in the blood, and on what indicators this value depends, we will consider further.
Prothrombin is the protein that rolls up quickly enough, so isolate it from general composition plasma is quite difficult.
In this regard, there are several methods for determining the level of prothrombin, on which the normal value depends.
The prothrombin index, which is calculated as a percentage, indicates that normally in all people, regardless of age, the indicators should fall within the following limits: 95-105
%. The only exception is women during pregnancy, for whom upper limit slightly reduced to 98-100%. This process is completely natural and is dictated by the need to insure the body during childbirth, when there is a high probability of heavy blood loss.
The Quick prothrombin study, which has some differences in the detection process itself, has the following limits - 70-120. In older people, the upper limit barely reaches 110, which is also the norm and indicates age-related changes in the body caused by active aging processes. During pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, values up to 110% are acceptable.
An important study that shows how long it takes for blood to clot without exposure to any anticoagulants is prothrombin time.It is measured in seconds and for each age interval has its own norms of values:
- newborns – 14-17 s;
- children of the first year of life – 13-15 s;
- children 2-10 years old – 13-18 s;
- teenagers under 16 years old – 11-13 s;
- adults 17-45 years old – 10-15 s;
- after 45 years – 12-14 s.
Blood clotting too quickly says about its oversaturation with prothrombins, which leads to its thickening and difficulty passing through the vessels.
Ask your question to a clinical laboratory diagnostics doctor
Anna Poniaeva. Graduated from Nizhny Novgorod medical academy(2007-2014) and Residency in Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics (2014-2016).
In cases where the indicators differ greatly from the norm, there is a need to carry out additional method INR studies - international normalized ratio. This coefficient reflects the coagulation rate and also indicates possible problems with health. Fine acceptable indicators INRs are 0.85-1.15.
In order to understand what values are indicated in the analysis, you should understand what methods are used to detect prothrombin in the blood. Let's consider all technologies used in details.
What tests are used?
All methods for determining prothrombin based on the biological processes of blood coagulation which occur in several stages. At mechanical damage vessel receives a signal about the onset of bleeding. At the site of injury, thrombin factors are released, activating increased blood viscosity, resulting in the formation of a blood clot. This blood clot plugs the leak, after which the integrity of the vessel is gradually restored.
The coagulation process can have both external factors, and internal ones, the activation of which completely depends on the situation. Analysis for prothrombin can be calculated using several methods that have their own distinctive features.
The most common tests included in the coagulogram are prothrombin time, prothrombin index, and Quick prothrombin.Prothrombin time
Prothrombin time is a numerical indicator, calculated in seconds, which shows how long it takes for blood to coagulate and transform into a blood clot. For each person, this numerical value will be different, due to the characteristics of the body. To conduct the study it is required deoxygenated blood, which is poured into a test tube with an anticoagulant (most often sodium citrate).
The vessel is placed in a centrifuge, where all blood elements, under the influence of centrifugal force, settle to the bottom and are removed. Calcium is injected into the resulting purified blood to neutralize the effect of sodium citrate in a ratio of 9:1. Next, tissue factor is added ( special reagent, acting as a catalyst for the reaction), after which it occurs natural process coagulation.
In case there is increased content bilirubin, the analysis is carried out using a special apparatus that allows automatic counting.Prothrombin index
This indicator is calculated using the formula, which takes the value of prothrombin time in healthy person, is divided by the indicator of the blood sample being studied, and then multiplied by 100%. The resulting value reflects the activation of blood clotting along the external pathway. This indicator helps to identify liver problems when prothrombin is produced in insufficient quantities, as well as monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant treatment.
PTI = normal PT index/patient PT index *100%
Data to determine this indicator are taken from a previous study of prothrombin time, which used exclusively venous blood purified by centrifugation.Prothrombin according to Quick
This research method is the most informative and reliable to date. The results obtained as a percentage reflect the activity of the prothrombin complex, which guards blood clotting. To put it simply, the resulting numerical value indicates how quickly all blood clotting mechanisms are launched.
Prothrombin in the blood is calculated according to Quick using a formula where you need to divide the indicator of temporary activity of prothrombin protein into indicators control sample. The data obtained can provide a more complete picture of the state of blood clotting.
The analysis uses blood from a vein, which is cleared of red blood cells.
After this, under the influence of various catalysts and reagents, a study is carried out, the results of which are calculated using the formula.Additional research methods
In cases where the coagulogram has conflicting indicators and there is a need for additional research, resort to such analyzes, How:
- International normalized ratio (INR) - the test shows the relationship between the patient’s prothrombin time and the norms established for a healthy person, taking into account all the individual characteristics and conditions of the body (pregnancy, old age, the presence of chronic diseases).
- Thrombin time - displays the indicator during which fibrinogen is transformed into fibrin.
- Identification of platelet factors allows us to identify the quantitative composition of all components that take part in the formation of a blood clot.
- Activated partial thromboplastin time - shows how quickly the internal processes that trigger the blood clotting mechanism are activated.
Indications for the study
Prothrombin study included in the coagulogram, which is mandatory analysis blood during medical examination, as well as during pregnancy. This analysis may also be prescribed in the following situations:
- There are prerequisites for development oncological diseases blood, as shown by blood tests performed earlier.
- Liver diseases that can affect the organ’s ability to synthesize prothrombins.
- In the presence of increased bleeding of gums, scratches and wounds, which is determined visually.
- Available hormonal disbalance, against which the performance circulatory system and hematopoietic organs are reduced.
- Autoimmune diseases that cause thickening of the blood and an increase in the number of platelets.
- Organ diseases digestive tract, in which there is a lack of vitamin K, necessary for the synthesis of prothrombin by liver cells.
What can affect the result?
Since the quantitative and qualitative composition may change throughout the day, to obtain the most reliable results it is recommended to donate blood in the first hours after waking up. At this time everything is vital important functions are just beginning to be activated, so the percentage of error caused by the influence of third-party factors is reduced.
It is important that blood sampling is carried out on an empty stomach, since at the time of digestion and absorption of food a large amount enters the blood nutrients, capable of influencing the rate of blood coagulation. It is necessary to establish nutrition 2-3 days before donating blood, excluding fried and fatty foods, as well as sweets.
Alcohol and any alcoholic beverages should be avoided 4-5 days before donating blood.
Smoking, if it has become a habit, should be stopped 12 hours before the test, since high concentrations of nicotine and tar in the blood can affect the indicators, giving incorrect results.
If a person is forced to take any medications on an ongoing basis, this is reported to the doctor, who gives a referral for examination. An appropriate note is made on the control sheet, which will allow the real picture of the state of blood coagulation to be assessed, taking into account the error.
A few days before the analysis, it is recommended to exclude any physical exercise, which provoke physical fatigue. A person should have a good rest and sleep, and not experience emotional shock or stress.
If the results obtained are below normal or above normal, and the blood clotting time has its deviations, it is recommended to retake the blood a few days later in another laboratory.
The human factor and the peculiarities of laboratory work cannot be underestimated.Decoding
After the blood test has been performed, the patient is given a transcript containing all the data on the state of blood clotting. It is usually presented in the form of a table divided into several columns. The first column indicates the research methodology and indicator, and the second column indicates the numerical value. The third column contains norm indicators for various groups patients, which makes it easier for people without medical education to perceive the results.
With the transcript received, you must contact the doctor who gave the referral.
He will evaluate the results obtained and decide whether additional studies are needed, or whether the coagulogram data will be sufficient to make a diagnosis.What values are considered low?
Low prothrombin index values are extremely life-threatening, as they indicate slow blood clotting. This, in turn, is fraught with the development of bleeding, which in a healthy person occurs without consequences or threat to life. Indicators that tend to 80% are considered low. The lower this indicator, the more dangerous condition human health.
Some transcripts contain another column where the reasons for deviations from the norm are indicated. Low readings may be caused by:
- chronic or congenital vitamin K deficiency;
- liver pathologies in which the synthesis of prothrombin cells is slowed or defective;
- use of medications that thin the blood (Aspirin);
- diseases of the digestive tract, in which the absorption of nutrients necessary for the synthesis of prothrombin cells is impossible.
External clinical manifestations and symptoms of low levels may be as follows:
- increased fatigue;
- problems with the digestive tract;
- frequent dysbacteriosis;
- stool disorder;
- pain in the right hypochondrium that occurs after eating fatty foods;
- pain in the left hypochondrium, which most often has a paroxysmal nature and depends on the food consumed.
An ordinary finger cut can result in the loss of 100-150 ml of blood, and a deeper abrasion can even cause full-scale bleeding that is life-threatening.
In the case when low prothrombin reaches critical levels, that is, the need for hospitalization and full examination. Otherwise, the person is in mortal danger, and any awkward movement can trigger the development of internal bleeding. It is possible to increase the level of prothrombin in the blood in women and men using blood transfusions when we're talking about about critical situations that threaten death.
Treatment is carried out only after assessing the state of health, as well as after identifying the root cause. Blood transfusions cannot be used continuously.
This is only a necessary measure to support a person’s life in a critical situation.What values are considered elevated?
Indicators that significantly exceed the maximum permissible standards are considered no less dangerous. High prothrombin 110-120% indicates the presence high concentration platelets in the blood, which makes the blood thicker. This in turn makes it difficult for it to pass through the vessels, causing stagnation.
The most dangerous consequence, which can develop with prolonged high blood clotting rates, is the formation of blood clots. Dense blood clots that move along the bloodstream along with blood can settle on the walls of blood vessels, preventing the flow of blood to individual tissues and organs.
Deadly danger the fact is that a blood clot can break off at any time and, together with the general blood flow, enter the heart, where it will cause it to stop due to valve blockage.An increase in blood viscosity can develop for several reasons:
- Prolonged dehydration when the body does not receive enough fluid.
- Having problems with the cardiovascular system.
- Increased production of vitamin K and liver disease that precedes it.
- Pathologies endocrine system.
- Autoimmune diseases.
- Presence of cancer.
Some medications can cause blood to thicken, so it is important to tell your doctor before testing.
Experienced laboratory technicians are able to determine the presence of high blood clotting rates after pricking a finger or drawing blood from a vein.If the blood flows too slowly and you have to apply force to take it, then there is a high probability of high prothrombin index values. Special clinical manifestations this pathology does not exist and is often detected during a routine examination or during pregnancy.
It is strictly forbidden to take medications that can thin the blood on your own. Especially if there is a suspicion of progression of thrombophlebitis or thromboembolism. Medicines containing aspirin that thin the blood artificially, can provoke the detachment of a blood clot from the walls of the vessel and its free movement to the heart, which will entail inevitable death.
If the results obtained differ significantly from normal, it is necessary to re-take the test after 2-3 days. If the repeated results turn out to be identical, it means that a number of additional studies will be required, which can indicate the presence of a specific health problem.
Since if there is thick blood there is a high probability of blood clots; patients will definitely need to consult a phlebologist and a cardiac surgeon who can evaluate possible risks for good health. Treatment is selected taking into account individual characteristics each patient, after a full examination and identification of the root cause.
Self-medication is strictly prohibited, as it can cause death.Prevention of normal levels
Since the quantitative indicator directly depends on a person’s lifestyle, the following recommendations can be considered prevention:
- Normalization of nutrition and limitation of consumption harmful products, which have an increased effect on the pancreas and liver.
- Refusal bad habits and alcohol addiction.
- Active lifestyle with dosed physical activity.
In order to promptly identify the presence of pathologies in the body, it is worth paying attention to how quickly the blood clots when a cut occurs.
If the blood is quite difficult to stop, then you need to take the appropriate test and establish the cause of what is happening.It is strictly forbidden to take any medications that can change blood viscosity. Only a doctor has the right to prescribe this type of treatment based on the results of the study.
Thus, prothrombin, the norm of which depends on the research method, shows the ability of blood to clot and form blood clots. This property is extremely important, as it provides protection during operations or injuries accompanied by a violation of the integrity of parts of the body.
A blood clotting test is a fairly important study that helps establish the cause of a number of serious illnesses. It helps prevent blood clots or bleeding in time.
PTI (prothrombin index) - what is it? At the time of the study, a blood test can determine how long it takes for plasma to clot a certain person, and compare the value with established standards. The ratio of this difference is converted into percentages. Acceptable rate in the blood - 78-142%, prothrombin index according to Quick - 95-105%.
Prothrombin is a protein that is a precursor of thrombin. And thrombin, in turn, plays an important role in thrombus formation. Prothrombin is produced in the liver. Vitamin K contributes to this. If there is not enough vitamin K, bleeding can be caused due to a decrease in the amount of prothrombin.
When is the analysis done?
Required in the following cases:
- on the eve of surgery;
- for patients who use anticoagulants to prevent blood clots;
- during pregnancy;
- patients with blood clotting problems, suffering from varicose veins;
- in people suffering from disorders cardiovascular system;
- with vitamin K deficiency;
- with cirrhosis of the liver.
The following specialists can prescribe such an analysis:
- traumatologist;
- therapist;
- pediatrician;
- cardiologist;
- surgeon;
- pulmonologist
How to get tested
Before you go to medical institution To take the test, you need to prepare.
- To obtain the most accurate result, it is better to take the test on an empty stomach between 8 and 11 am. Ideally, the interval between the last meal and the test should be from 8 to 14 hours. Please note: this time should not exceed 14 hours.
- The day before you should not eat fatty, spicy food, you should stop using alcoholic drinks. One hour before the test you should not smoke.
- Contraindications relate to taking medications. If you are taking a course of certain medications, you should postpone the test until you stop treatment. There are situations when medication cannot be interrupted. In such cases, the patient is obliged to provide all information about the dosage and names of the drugs.
Blood for analysis is taken from a vein. It is collected in a test tube with sodium citrate. The plasma is then separated from the blood cells using a centrifuge.
Decoding the results
Reasons for the low rate:
- Vitamin K deficiency.
- Liver disease.
- Heredity.
The percentage has increased due to:
- Congenital clotting problems.
- Vitamin K deficiency.
- Heparin.
- Oncological diseases.
- Antibiotic use wide range.
Normal for pregnant women
The prothrombin index during pregnancy increases to 90-120%. This can be attributed to hormonal changes in the body of a pregnant woman.
It is important to carry out PTI analysis two to four times, especially during pregnancy. Great emphasis should be placed on it in the last trimester, because there is very little time left before birth and it is necessary to monitor the dynamics.
When the percentage rises to 150, there is a risk of placental abruption. When the rate falls below 90%, you can expect heavy bleeding during or after childbirth.
If a pregnant woman exhibits irregularities in the percentage indicator, you should not refuse inpatient monitoring at the maternity hospital. For the expectant mother It is important to be under the supervision of specialists.
Kwik indicators
Kwik analysis is done for additional research Gastrointestinal tract, as well as liver.
Quick analysis is performed in the following cases:
- When clotting is impaired.
- There are ailments associated with the liver.
- Process in progress increased thrombus formation.
- With a disease such as blood cancer.
- In cases associated with vitamin K deficiency.
What limits of indicators are acceptable:
- Up to 6 years - 80-100.
- From 6 to 12 - 79-102.
- From 12 to 18 - 78-110.
- From 18 to 25 - 82-115.
- From 25 to 45 - 78-135.
- From 45 to 65 - 78-142.
The norm for women and the norm for men, regardless of age, are identical.
Prothrombin time is an indicator that reflects the seconds during which plasma coagulates after adding the desired mixture to it.
- In children, especially newborns, this figure is 14-18 seconds.
- For adults, the normal figure is 10-15. The optimal value of prothrombin time ranges from 9-12 seconds.
INR - international normalized ratio
INR - special method, which is used to monitor the final result of the prothrombin test. Application this method strongly recommended by representatives of international health organizations.
Thanks to the results that the specialist receives after this study, he can monitor how effectively the treatment with synthetic drugs is going.
- is 0.85-1.15.
- If we are talking about the treatment or prevention of venous thrombosis, pulmonary diseases or deformation of the heart valves, then the INR norm can reach 3.0.
Prothrombin is increased
If prothrombin according to Quick is elevated, what could cause this result and what measures should be taken? An increase is indicated by a prothrombin indicator of more than 150%.
The following factors can lead to this:
- Many diseases characterized by a decrease in vitamin K.
- DIC syndrome.
- Diseases that interfere with the normal production of fibrin.
- Heredity and other pathologies that can lead to clotting problems.
- An increase in the indicator may cause medications when used for a long time, for example:
- Aspirin.
- Broad-spectrum antibiotics.
- Heparin.
- Anabolic.
- Laxatives.
- Methotrexate.
- Nicotinic acid.
Most often, prothrombin in the female and male population increases at the age of 45-50 years. This indicator may be increased in women due to taking hormonal drugs.
If a woman is diagnosed with serious cardiovascular disease, the use of hormonal birth control pills should be canceled immediately. You can replace them with an analogue in the form of suppositories or a vaginal ring.
What to do with an increased prothrombin level
How to reduce prothrombin level? This category of people must adhere to a certain diet and lifestyle.
You need to eat as much as possible more products which help thin the blood. It is important to understand that there are a number of foods that can cause blood to thicken.
Scroll necessary ingredients to lower prothrombin levels:
- Everyone knows oatmeal. Oatmeal not only helps stabilize digestion, but also prevents blood thickening. Ideally you should use this dish as breakfast. If desired, you can supplement the porridge with fresh berries.
- Tomato juice, especially when made from fresh vegetables on one's own. Many people make the grave mistake of adding salt to juice.
- Beetroot is an ideal vegetable that helps reduce prothrombin levels.
- What is a diet without ginger? It can be added to tea. Ginger root thins the blood and prevents the formation of blood clots.
- Flaxseed oil, olive oil.
- Fish fat. Currently, it can be purchased in pharmacies in capsule form. This is an excellent odorless and tasteless option.
- It is recommended to use apple cider vinegar during cooking.
- A pineapple. It is enough to eat just a little to trigger beneficial processes in the body.
What rules should you follow during the diet:
- Give preference to vegetables, fruits and fresh berries.
- Meat may be present on the table, but in minimal doses.
- Meat can be replaced with fish.
- Limit your consumption of baked goods.
- It is best to cook in a double boiler.
- You need to eat more often, but in doses.
- Be sure to drink regularly.
What not to eat or drink:
- Smoked meats.
- Fatty, rich soups.
- Canned food.
- Alcoholic drinks.
Decreased prothrombin
If the prothrombin index is low, this may indicate excessive activity of the prothrombin protein. A decrease may be observed in pregnant women, those suffering from polycythemia (this increased viscosity blood), patients with venous thrombosis.
A decrease in the indicator may indicate the following diseases:
- Gastrointestinal diseases.
- Dysbacteriosis.
- Prothrombin deficiency.
- Hypovitaminosis.
- Oncological diseases.
- Allergic reaction.
Most often, a decrease in this indicator occurs due to diet and occurs among representatives of the stronger half of humanity. It is men who make the choice in favor meat products, eating few vegetables and fruits.
What to do if the prothrombin level is low?
Typically, specialists prescribe their patients the use of medications such as heparin and warfarin.
In conjunction with drug treatment you need to watch your diet. Here is a list of foods that are not recommended for consumption reduced level prothrombin:
- Animal fats.
- Buckwheat porridge.
- Beets, red cabbage, red pepper.
- Bakery products.
- Pickling and smoking.
- Greenery.
- Legumes.
Failures in prothrombin levels can lead to bleeding. They can be prevented if preventive measures include the right foods in your diet:
- Fish and fish oil.
- Onion and garlic.
- Citrus fruits, especially lemon.
- Ginger root.
- Green tea and cocoa.
- Oatmeal.
- Cranberries, raspberries or figs.
Fibrinogen
Produced by the liver. It is he who takes part in thrombus formation. Analysis for the prothrombin index and fibrinogen protein characterizes the links of one chain.
When thrombin is activated, it entails a change in fibrinogen. And it, in turn, is converted into fibers - fibrin. These unbreakable fibers appear in the form of a blood clot, which already plays a direct role in blocking the vessel.
The fibrinogen protein reaches its peak in the first few days after a stroke, heart attack, inflammatory processes and flu. An increase in this indicator can be observed in smokers, pregnant women, people suffering from diseases of the endocrine system, and with prolonged use of hormonal medications.
A decrease in fibrinogen protein is observed in people:
- with liver and gastrointestinal diseases;
- with a lack of vitamin B12;
- during pregnancy, toxicosis;
- during the period of taking anabolic steroids;
- when taking a certain group of medications.
The only one effective prevention any diseases are giving up bad habits, proper nutrition, dosed physical activity and timely examination.
IN human body There is a constant movement of blood - a life-giving fluid that provides nutrition to all cells of the body and metabolism. The length of the vessels is thousands of kilometers, and their area is more than half a hectare. It is impossible to imagine how all this fits in the body of an adult.
But the amount of life-giving fluid is small: for men - a little more than five liters, and for women - about four. Therefore, when injuries or cuts disrupt the integrity of the circulatory system, its contents can quickly spill out, threatening a person with death.
If blood loss is not prevented, the main transport link that nourishes the entire body will cease to exist.
To prevent this from happening, nature has created a system responsible for blood clotting. It is this that is capable of triggering protective mechanisms that close the wound and prevent blood from leaving the vessels.
The value of prothrombin in the body
Part of this system are special plasma proteins called blood clotting factors. They are designated by Roman numerals from I to XIII. Prothrombin is one of the main components. This protein is blood clotting factor II.
The name “prothrombin” suggests that it is a precursor to thrombin, an active enzyme. With its assistance, a clot (thrombus) is formed, closing the wound and stopping blood loss.
A normal level of prothrombin indicates that the blood clotting process is working efficiently and the body will be able to stop the loss of this life-giving fluid in time.
Protein testing is not performed as often as clinical blood testing. This procedure is not easy and is prescribed only in cases of extreme necessity, for example in case of blood diseases or problems with blood clotting.
Determination of prothrombin level – the most important test as part of a hemostasiogram.
Norm of prothrombin
Prothrombin molecules disintegrate very easily and quickly. It is difficult to separate them from other proteins, which makes determining its level much more difficult. Several methods are used for qualitative analysis.
- Prothrombin according to Quick. Today this method is generally accepted and widespread. This technique involves calculating the level of a substance as a percentage of permissible quantity. The following values (%) are considered optimal:
- minimum – 70;
- maximum – 120.
The indicator allows you to determine the activity of the thrombosed plasma complex in comparison with various dilutions of the patient’s plasma. A graph of changes in prothrombin is drawn up, which is based on data on blood clotting time.
Experts consider the Quick analysis to be the most accurate when low prothrombin levels are recorded.
- Prothrombin index– also determined as a percentage. Normal indicator is within the following limits (%):
- minimum – 95;
- maximum – 105.
The results of the two tests above may be the same if prothrombin is normal. But when its value is lower than optimal, they diverge significantly. The index is highly dependent on the sensitivity of the chemical reagents used in testing.
- Prothrombin time– shows how many seconds it takes the plasma to coagulate after adding a special mixture to it.
The final test data depends on age. In newborn babies, blood clotting time can range from 14 to 18 seconds. And these indicators are normal. In adults, a period of 10 to 15 seconds is considered optimal.
- International normalized ratio - INR. This method is additional and is used to monitor the results of the prothrombin test.
The INR method is recommended by WHO experts and other international organizations and committees that study thrombosis and standardize in hematology. The results of such a test allow the doctor to monitor the effectiveness of treatment with anticoagulants - synthetic substances that reduce the level of prothrombin in the blood and slow down its clotting. These drugs are used in the treatment of thrombophlebitis, thrombosis, that is, diseases that form dangerous blood clots in venous vessels.
The normal INR is 0.85–1.15.
When treating diseases such as pulmonary embolism, venous thrombosis, or there are pathologies of the heart valves, the permissible limits increase to 3.0.
Indications for prothrombin test
A blood test for prothrombin may be prescribed by a doctor in the following cases:
- the patient has bleeding that does not stop for too long (this clearly indicates that blood clotting is below normal levels);
- the performance of liver enzymes and the liver in general decreases;
- to monitor clotting during long-term use anticoagulants;
- at antiphospholipid syndrome in order to clarify the cause of the disease;
- if there are diseases that are accompanied by a lack of vitamin K in the body.
Some indirect reasons requiring a prothrombin test are purely individual in nature. Most often, the study is prescribed to representatives of the fair sex between the ages of 50 and 60. It is at this time that hormonal changes occur, causing change in the composition and structure of blood.
The following doctors can prescribe an analysis:
- therapist;
- traumatologist;
- surgeon;
- cardiologist;
- anesthesiologist-resuscitator;
- pulmonologist;
- pediatrician.
Blood from a vein is used for the study. To ensure that the results are as correct as possible, you must follow the standard rules before the study:
- dinner no later than eight o'clock in the evening, at least 12 hours before testing;
- Before the study, be sure to get your nerves in order and not overexert yourself physically;
- Do not smoke on the day of the test and do not drink strong drinks.
As usual, blood is donated in the morning on an empty stomach. Need to inform medical staff about all medications taken in the last 24 hours.
Prothrombin is increased
An increased level of prothrombin in the blood indicates that blood clotting is greater than normal. This means that it becomes too viscous, which impedes blood circulation and leads to blockage of blood vessels.
The following ailments can provoke an increase in prothrombin levels, and therefore blood clotting:
- malignant neoplasms;
- liver pathologies;
- thromboembolism;
- polycythemia;
- progressive angina.
An increase in the amount of protein can also be caused by the following factors:
- an excess of vitamin K in the body, with the help of which prothrombin is produced;
- use of anticoagulants, antibiotics in therapy, nicotinic acid, hormonal contraception. Excessive use aspirin, anabolic steroids, laxatives can also affect the growth of prothrombin.
Quite often, the protein content increases during pregnancy. Most often it appears in the last trimester and does not require treatment.
Prothrombin is reduced: reasons
A reduced level of prothrombin is dangerous because even a minor injury that damages blood vessel, can result in significant blood loss. After all, the formation of a blood clot occurs more slowly than it should.
A decrease in prothrombin levels is provoked by the following reasons:
- Certain liver pathologies, although most of them are accompanied by an increase in protein. The prothrombin content decreases during acute and chronic forms hepatitis A. Liver cirrhosis has a similar effect.
- Insufficient synthesis of vitamin K by the body. This process develops most often due to gastrointestinal ailments and dysbiosis.
- Deficiency of fibrinogen, a protein that is produced in the liver and then converted into fibrin, which is the basis of the clot during blood clotting. Such a deficiency can be either congenital or acquired.
- Admission to medicinal purposes drugs that promote blood clotting.
It is possible to bring the prothrombin level back to normal, but anything should be done only after consulting a specialist.
Therapy is aimed at eliminating the ailments that caused the problem. Quite often, the basis of treatment is a special diet.
A prothrombin test is prescribed by a doctor to determine how quickly the blood clots. Prothrombin according to Quick very often makes it possible to identify serious pathologies in the body. Typically, such an analysis is prescribed for women in menopause, also for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and in other cases. The methodology for this research was proposed back in the 30s of the last century by Quick. It is still popular today. The result of the study is expressed as a percentage.
Prothrombin according to Quick. What does it mean?
Proteins have a huge impact on blood clotting. The most important one in this case is prothrombin. The prothrombin molecule is synthesized in our liver. For successful completion this process The body must have normal amounts of microelements and vitamins, especially vitamin K. Research shows that a lack of this vitamin contributes to the formation of blood clots, which, in turn, impair proper blood circulation.
The degree of coagulation is characterized by the prothrombin index (PTI). It allows you to identify pathological processes in organism.
Prothrombin according to Quick is determined by the ratio of the temporary activity of prothrombin protein to the control sample. Expressed as a percentage. Characterizes prothrombin formation - the first phase of plasma homeostasis is shown, coagulation factor II is assessed.
Purpose of analysis
Prothrombin according to Quick is prescribed in the following cases:
- Frequent bleeding occurs or in case of injury the bleeding does not stop for a long time.
- Problems with the liver, kidneys, small intestines.
- Suspicion of blood cancer.
- Blood monitoring during anticoagulant treatment.
- Before the operation.
- Women during menopause due to changes hormonal levels to exclude cancer.
Most often, prothrombin indicators are of interest to specialists such as anesthesiologist-resuscitator, cardiologist, gastroenterologist, pulmonologist, pediatrician, traumatologist, surgeon, and therapist.
Prothrombin analysis according to Quick. Preparation for the procedure
The test for prothrombin does not require any special preparation, everything is the same as with other blood tests. But there are certain features:
- Blood is drawn on an empty stomach. The last meal is no later than eight hours before the procedure.
- A few days before donating blood for prothrombin according to Quick, you need to exclude fatty foods that are rich in vitamin K, and do not eat nuts, legumes, liver, cabbage, or green tea.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages, as consuming them destroys vitamin K, and this negatively affects test results.
- Before donating blood, you can only drink clean water, but only an hour before the procedure.
If you are prescribed a prothrombin blood test according to Quick, be sure to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking. Some medications affect prothrombin levels. These include diuretics with heparin, antibacterial agents, aspirin, barbiturates, corticosteroids, contraceptives. You should also inform if you are taking any sports nutritional supplements, some components of the composition can affect the analyzes.
Smoking is prohibited half an hour before the procedure. You need to relax and calm down. Negative emotions and physical activity negatively affects the result.
It is undesirable to determine prothrombin using Quick during menstruation; the results will be inaccurate.
Venous blood is examined for analysis. Capillary is not suitable for these purposes. The taken material is left for some time until the plasma separates. It is subject to various studies.
Determination of prothrombin
Prothrombin in the blood is determined in several ways:
- The most popular is prothrombin according to Quick. Provides more accurate information. Research shows percentages. The activity of plasma, the time during which it manages to clot, are determined during an analysis called prothrombin according to Quick.
- INR (international normalized ratio) shows the relative result. Most often, such a study is carried out when taking anticoagulants to monitor the condition.
- Prothrombin index. The procedure is considered obsolete. It is rarely used in medicine, since there are many more accurate analogues.
- Prothrombin time indicates the rate of blood clotting.
It is worth considering that INR shows relative results. This test is most often used by microbiologists. Prothrombin according to Quick gives extended results, accurate time and PTI.
Decoding, norm according to Kwik
When deciphering the analysis, researchers find out the PTI and the time during which the folding occurs, this indicator is indicated in seconds. A graph is drawn up for the result, indicating the percentage of clotting readings. Each laboratory interprets the result in its own way; this may depend on the agents and the quality of the equipment, on how the patient used the drugs, on the characteristics of his treatment, on individual standards.
If prothrombin according to Quick is prescribed, the norm will be established, regardless of gender. The indicator is affected only by the state of the body. Normal prothrombin time is a period of 9-12 seconds, PTI in an adult is 82-142%.
This indicator is important during pregnancy; even with minor changes, the woman should be hospitalized. Deviations from the norm of prothrombin indicate disturbances in the body.
Increased performance
An indicator exceeding the norm indicates hypercoagulation. In cases of even minor deviations, it is necessary to conduct further examination and find out the cause. Having determined the appropriate cause for the violation of the prothrombin norm, the doctor can prescribe the correct treatment.
Elevated prothrombin levels may indicate the following problems:
- increased levels of heparin in the blood;
- formation of malignant neoplasms;
- blood clots in blood vessels;
- heart problems;
- congenital deficiencies of clotting factor II, V, VII, X;
- acquired deficiency of coagulation factors due to amyloidosis, nephrotic syndrome, liver dysfunction, chronic diseases;
- treatment with anticoagulants;
- presence of heparin;
- for chronic and acute leukemia- DIC syndrome;
- the use of antibiotics, laxatives, anabolic steroids, aspirin, quinidine, nicotinic acid, quinine, thiazide diuretics;
- long-term use of hormonal contraceptives.
Low rate
If prothrombin according to Quick is low, what does this mean? This may indicate hypocoagulation (tendency to bleeding), and it is caused by a lack of vitamin K. This vitamin is necessary for the synthesis of coagulation factors. Typically, vitamin K deficiency can occur with intestinal diseases and dysbacteriosis. Prothrombin decreases if there is a disturbance in the functioning of the liver, as well as the pancreas. Reason reduced rate There may also be medications taken that can affect blood clotting.
Also, the reasons for low prothrombin include the following indicators:
- thrombosis and thromboembolism;
- polycythemia;
- dehydration, loss of fluid after diarrhea and vomiting;
- myocardial infarction or pre-infarction condition;
- jump, increase in the activity of clotting factor VII;
- injuries that caused it to enter the bloodstream large quantity thromboplastin;
- cirrhosis, hepatitis;
- postpartum period;
- congenital deficiency of certain blood clotting factors;
- pronounced hereditary or acquired deficiency of fibrinogen in the blood.
Expansion of research
If the above methods do not give complete information, research into the hemostasis system is expanding. The doctor should study individual functions, as well as quantitative values of plasma and platelet factors. Prothrombin tests provide grounds for searching for various disorders in hemocoagulation and suggest further avenues of research. For these purposes, the following hemostasiogram parameters are used:
- Thrombin time, or an indicator indicating the transition of fibrinogen to fibrin.
- International normalized ratio.
- Platelet factors are determined.
- Determination of activated partial thromboplastin time.
- Analysis of soluble fibrin-monomer complex, lupus anticoagulant, D-dimer and others.
Listed laboratory research allow not only to study the external path of hemostasis of a certain analysis, but also make it possible to find violations in internal system hemocoagulation.
How to increase prothrombin
If studies have shown that prothrombin according to Quick is low, the attending doctor will give recommendations for its correction. He will recommend including in your diet natural products containing vitamin K. It will be necessary to normalize your water balance, optimize consumption clean water, the norm must be increased to two liters per day.
Eat foods that help improve blood clotting. These include cabbage (cauliflower and regular), spinach, carrots, corn, walnuts, bananas, red berries. Useful in such cases buckwheat, animal fats, legumes, liver, White bread. These products should be present on the menu every day. At the same time, the diet should be full of other vitamins and microelements; you will only supplement it with the listed products.
In order to prevent bleeding, the doctor recommends eliminating decoctions based on nettle, tansy and yarrow.
Decreased prothrombin
Many people wonder how to lower prothrombin according to Quick. To slightly reduce the rate, a diet that should contain tomato juice, tomatoes, garlic, onions, oatmeal, flaxseed, olive oil. Recommended for consumption are seafood, fish, as well as fruits and berries: lemons, cherries, raspberries, cranberries, strawberries.
Increased prothrombin is a signal that the blood is too thick. This negatively affects the functioning of the heart, threatens the formation of blood clots, and generally has a negative effect on the condition of the body. There are medications that reduce blood density, but what if for some reason they are contraindicated? For example, pregnant or lactating women.
The following recipe will help:
- Take three sweet and sour apples, two tablespoons of pure green tea, one tablespoon of honey.
- Cut the apples into thin slices, put them in a thermos (1.5-2 l), add tea and add honey. Fill hot water(90 degrees), not boiling water, leave for three hours.
- Make an infusion early in the morning and drink throughout the day. So every morning for a week we make a drink and drink it. We check the prothrombin level using tests.
