Coagulation Profile

A coagulation profile (coags) includes INR, APTT, platelets and fibrinogen. It is a screening test for abnormal blood clotting because it examines the factors most often associated with a bleeding problem. It does not cover all causes of bleeding tendencies.

How is a coagulation profile test performed?

A coagulation profile is a blood test. It requires a few mililitres of blood from a vein, and it is important that the blood sample tube is filled to the correct level – otherwise false readings may occur.

Why would you need to get a coagulation profile?

A coagulation profile may be performed to confirm normal clotting function before a procedure which may cause bleeding, or in conditions associated with bleeding, for example from the respiratory, urinary, or gastrointestinal tract.

A coagulation profile may also be requested by your doctor if there is a concern about easy bruising or bleeding. This may happen because of hereditary conditions such as Haemophilia, or acquired conditions such as liver failure, or severe infections.

A condition called Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) may occur in critically ill patients, from a variety of possible causes. DIC affects all the components of the coagulation profile.