The activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is a screening test that helps assess the functionality of both the intrinsic and common pathways. This diagnostic test asses the effectiveness and presence of all the coagulation factors, except factors VII and XIII. In addition to being an integral part of the coagulation disorder assessment process, the aPTT determines the therapeutic effectiveness of heparin administration.
The activated partial thromboplastin time results are used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and the patient's clinical picture to determine any hemostatic abnormalities that may be present.
Activated partial thromboplastin time results are presented to the clinician in seconds- the actual time elapsed until a clot was detected using the laboratory's instrument/reagent system.
