Examinations
Examinations
The Bleeding Time Test measures how long it takes for your blood to clot and stop bleeding. The test is performed by creating a small incision on the surface of the skin.
The test evaluates the clotting function of platelets.
Platelets are small cells in the bloodstream. They are the first responders to blood vessel injury. Platelets move to the wound site and form a seal to prevent further bleeding.
- Do not eat 4 hours prior to the test.
- Avoid medications that can influence blood clotting.
- Prolonged bleeding time in a wound or injury site beyond normal limits.
- Assessment of platelet function.
Abnormal bleeding time results may indicate the need for further investigation to identify the cause of prolonged bleeding. This could suggest an acquired platelet function defect that develops after birth and affects platelet activity. Your body might produce too many or too few platelets, or the platelets may not function properly.
Abnormal results may also point to the following conditions:
- Blood vessel injury: Any condition that affects the ability of blood vessels to transport blood effectively.
- Genetic platelet function defect
- Primary thrombocythemia: When the bone marrow produces too many platelets.
- Thrombocytopenia
- Von Willebrand disease: A hereditary disorder affecting blood clotting.