Prothrombin Time (PT) & International
Normalized Ratio (INR)

Prothrombin Time (PT) and International Normalized Ratio (INR) are blood tests used to assess blood clotting ability. PT measures the time it takes for blood to clot, while INR standardizes PT results for consistency across different laboratories. These tests are crucial for monitoring individuals on blood-thinning medications like warfarin, diagnosing bleeding disorders, and evaluating liver function.

A prolonged PT/INR may indicate liver disease, vitamin K deficiency, or clotting disorders, increasing the risk of excessive bleeding. Conversely, a shorter PT suggests a higher risk of blood clots. Patients on anticoagulants require regular PT/INR monitoring to maintain an optimal balance between preventing clots and avoiding excessive bleeding.

Doctors use PT/INR results to adjust medication doses, ensuring effective treatment. These tests are simple, requiring only a blood sample, and are essential for individuals with clotting disorders or those undergoing anticoagulant therapy.