Blood Coagulation

Blood coagulation (hemostasis) is the process that stops bleeding. When it’s out of balance, you may bleed too easily or form clots too quickly. Coagulation testing evaluates how well your clotting factors, fibrinogen, and fibrinolysis are working and helps clarify abnormal bruising/bleeding, suspected clotting events, or monitor anticoagulant therapy.

Ulta Lab Tests provides access to core coagulation labs—including PT/INR, aPTT, fibrinogen, thrombin time, D-dimer, anti-Xa, and specific factor assays—with fast, secure reporting to support screening, diagnosis, and monitoringalongside your clinician’s exam and imaging.


Signs & Symptoms (When to consider testing)

Bleeding tendency (hypocoagulation):

  • Easy bruising, petechiae (tiny red/purple spots)

  • Frequent or prolonged nose/gum bleeding

  • Heavy menstrual bleeding; prolonged bleeding after cuts, dental work, or surgery

  • Oozing from IV/wound sites

Clotting tendency (hypercoagulation):

  • One-sided leg swelling/pain (possible DVT)

  • Sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat (possible PE)

  • Unexplained stroke/TIA, especially at younger age or with family history

  • Pregnancy complications or recurrent miscarriages (thrombophilia workup)

Urgent care: uncontrolled bleeding, signs of shock (pale, clammy, fast pulse), trouble breathing, chest pain, or neurologic symptoms.

Related searches: coagulation tests, PT/INR, aPTT, fibrinogen test, thrombin time, D-dimer test, anti-Xa heparin level, factor assays, mixing study, lupus anticoagulant.


Why These Tests Matter

What coag labs can do

  • Screen for clotting factor deficiencies or inhibitors when bleeding is excessive

  • Support evaluation of suspected clots (e.g., D-dimer in DVT/PE pathways)

  • Help differentiate vitamin K deficiency, liver disease, DIC, medication effects, or inherited disorders

  • Monitor anticoagulants (e.g., INR for warfarin; anti-Xa for heparin/LMWH where used)

  • Provide baseline and trend data to guide care

What they cannot do

  • Confirm a diagnosis by themselves—results need clinical context and, at times, imaging (e.g., ultrasound/CT for clots)

  • Replace specialist evaluation for complex bleeding or clotting histories


What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • PT/INR (extrinsic/common pathway): prolonged by factor VII problems, vitamin K deficiencywarfarin effect, or liver disease.

  • aPTT (intrinsic/common pathway): prolonged by VIII, IX, XI deficiencies (e.g., hemophilia), heparin effect, or inhibitors.

  • Both PT & aPTT prolonged: consider common pathway defects (I, II, V, X)liver diseaseDIC.

  • Fibrinogen (activity/antigen): low in DIC or rare congenital deficiency; acute-phase elevations with inflammation.

  • Thrombin Time (TT): prolonged with low/abnormal fibrinogen or heparin/direct thrombin inhibitor effect.

  • D-dimer: fibrin-degradation product; elevated with active clot breakdown (DVT/PE, DIC) but nonspecific—interpret with pretest probability/imaging.

  • Anti-Xa (unfractionated/LMWH): functional heparin level where monitoring is indicated.

  • Specific Factor Assays (e.g., II, V, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XIII): identify inherited/acquired factor deficiencies.

  • Mixing Studies (lab-performed): correction suggests deficiency; lack of correction suggests inhibitor (e.g., acquired FVIII inhibitor, lupus anticoagulant).

  • Lupus Anticoagulant testing (e.g., DRVVT): detects a phospholipid-dependent inhibitor linked to thrombosis risk despite prolonged aPTT.

  • Complementary tests: platelet count/function and von Willebrand studies when mucocutaneous bleeding predominates.


How the Testing Process Works

  1. Order online: choose a coagulation screen or targeted assays.

  2. Visit a local lab: quick blood draw; some panels require specific tubes.

  3. Get results fast: most post within 24–48 hours to your secure account.

  4. Review with your clinician: interpret with history, meds (anticoagulants/antiplatelets), and imaging.


Interpreting Results (general guidance)

  • Normal PT & aPTT + mucocutaneous bleeding → consider platelet/von Willebrand issues.

  • Isolated prolonged PT → vitamin K deficiency, warfarin effect, factor VII deficiency, liver disease.

  • Isolated prolonged aPTT → hemophilia A/B, FXI deficiency, heparin effect, lupus anticoagulant, acquired inhibitors (mixing study helps).

  • Both PT & aPTT prolonged + low fibrinogen + high D-dimer → consider DIC (clinical urgency varies).

  • High D-dimer with compatible symptoms → supports clot presence, but imaging confirms.

  • Subtherapeutic/ supratherapeutic anticoagulant levels → discuss medication management with your clinician.

Always interpret results with a qualified healthcare professional.


Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Initial screen (unclear bleeding/clotting): PT/INR + aPTT + fibrinogen ± D-dimer.

  • Suspected inherited deficiency: add specific factor assays and mixing study per clinician guidance.

  • Suspected antiphospholipid syndrome: order lupus anticoagulant testing; clinicians may add aCL/β2GP1 antibodies.

  • Anticoagulant monitoring: INR for warfarin; anti-Xa for heparin/LMWH where appropriate.

  • If mucocutaneous bleeding predominates: pair with von Willebrand panel and platelet function tests.


FAQs

What’s the difference between PT/INR and aPTT?
PT/INR evaluates the extrinsic/common pathway and is used to monitor warfarinaPTT evaluates the intrinsic/common pathway and is sensitive to heparin and several factor deficiencies.

Does a high D-dimer mean I definitely have a clot?
No. D-dimer is sensitive but not specific. It supports a clot diagnosis when symptoms and risk are present, but imaging confirms.

Why might my aPTT be prolonged but I form clots?
lupus anticoagulant can prolong aPTT in the lab yet be associated with thrombosis in the body.

Can I use these tests to adjust my anticoagulant dose myself?
No. Test results should be reviewed with your clinician, who will manage medications and targets.

How quickly will I get results?
Most coagulation tests are available within 24–48 hours; specialized factor studies may vary.


Internal Links & Cross-References

  • Blood Disorders Hub

  • Bleeding Disorders

  • Clotting Disorders/Thrombophilia

  • Blood Chemistry Tests

  • Liver Function Tests

  • Key Blood Tests: PT/INR • aPTT • Fibrinogen • Thrombin Time • D-dimer • Anti-Xa • Factor Assays • Mixing Study • Lupus Anticoagulant


Available Tests & Panels

Tip: Begin with a coagulation screen (PT/INR, aPTT, fibrinogen ± D-dimer). Add factor assays, anti-Xa, or lupus anticoagulant based on symptoms and clinician guidance.

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The Prothrombin with INR and Partial Thromboplastin Times Test measures how long blood takes to clot by evaluating PT, INR, and aPTT. Abnormal results may indicate clotting disorders, liver disease, vitamin K deficiency, or risk of bleeding and thrombosis. Doctors use this test to monitor patients on blood thinners like warfarin, assess unexplained bleeding, and evaluate clotting function. It provides critical insight into coagulation and overall blood health.

Also Known As: PT with INR and aPTT Test, PT/INR and PTT Test

The Prothrombin Time with INR Test measures how long it takes blood to clot and calculates the international normalized ratio (INR) for accuracy. It is commonly used to monitor patients on blood-thinning medications like warfarin and to evaluate bleeding disorders, liver disease, or vitamin K deficiency. Doctors order this test to investigate easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding and to ensure safe and effective anticoagulant therapy.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: PT with INR Test

The Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) Test measures how long it takes blood to clot, evaluating clotting factors and overall coagulation function. Abnormal results may indicate bleeding disorders, hemophilia, liver disease, or clotting factor deficiencies. Doctors also use this test to monitor patients on heparin therapy. Results provide essential insight into blood clotting, bleeding risk, and treatment management for safe medical care.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: aPTT Test, PTT Test

The Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets Test is a comprehensive blood test that checks red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential analyzes types of white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, clotting abnormalities, immune conditions, and certain cancers. This essential test is often ordered for routine health exams, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment progress.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: CBC Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets Test, CBC w/Diff and Platelets Test, Full Blood Count Test, Complete Blood Count Test

The Antiphospholipid Antibody Panel measures autoantibodies such as anticardiolipin, beta-2 glycoprotein I, and lupus anticoagulant associated with abnormal blood clotting. Elevated levels are linked to antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), recurrent pregnancy loss, stroke, or deep vein thrombosis. This test supports evaluation of autoimmune conditions, unexplained thrombosis, and risks of vascular or pregnancy complications.


The Platelet Count Test evaluates platelet levels in blood to assess clotting ability and overall hematologic health. Low counts may suggest bone marrow disorders, immune conditions, or increased bleeding risk, while high counts can be linked to inflammation, thrombosis, or myeloproliferative disease. This test provides insight into clotting function, systemic balance, and circulatory health.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Platelet Count EDTA Test

The ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern Test detects antinuclear antibodies in blood to evaluate autoimmune activity. If positive, further testing identifies antibody concentration (titer) and fluorescence pattern, helping diagnose conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, rash, or swelling and to guide treatment for autoimmune and connective tissue disorders.

Also Known As: ANA Test, Antinuclear Antibody Screen Test

The Vitamin B12 and Folate Panel Test measures blood levels of vitamin B12 and folate to evaluate nutritional status, red blood cell production, and nervous system health. Deficiencies may cause anemia, fatigue, weakness, neuropathy, or cognitive decline, while elevated levels can indicate liver or kidney disease. Doctors use this panel to diagnose deficiency, monitor therapy, and assess absorption disorders such as pernicious anemia, Crohn’s disease, or celiac disease.

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Also Known As: Cobalamin and Folic Acid Test, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin B9 Test

The General Hepatitis Panel Test screens for multiple hepatitis infections in one order. It includes Hepatitis A Antibody Total, Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Qualitative, Hepatitis B Surface Antigen with Reflex to Confirmation, Hepatitis B Core Antibody Total, and Hepatitis C Antibody with Reflex to RNA PCR. Doctors use this panel to detect past exposure, confirm active or chronic infection, guide treatment, and support liver health monitoring.

Also Known As: Hepatitis Panel General

Most Popular

The Vitamin K Test measures blood levels of vitamin K, a nutrient essential for blood clotting, bone strength, and heart health. Deficiency may cause easy bruising, excessive bleeding, or weakened bones, and can result from poor diet, liver disease, or malabsorption. Doctors order this test to investigate clotting problems, monitor anticoagulant therapy, or assess nutritional status. Results help guide treatment, supplementation, and long-term health management.

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Blood Draw

The Calcium Test measures calcium levels in blood to assess bone health, parathyroid function, and metabolic balance. Abnormal levels may indicate bone disease, parathyroid disorders, kidney disease, or certain cancers. Both low and high calcium can cause muscle spasms, weakness, or irregular heartbeat. Doctors order this test to monitor osteoporosis, kidney stones, or endocrine disorders. Results provide essential insight into bone, nerve, and overall metabolic health.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Ca Test, Serum Calcium Test, Calcium Blood Test

The Fibrinogen Degradation Products Semi Quantitative Test measures fragments produced when fibrinogen and fibrin are broken down, reflecting clot dissolution and fibrinolytic activity. Elevated FDP levels may indicate disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), thrombotic disorders, or excessive clot breakdown. This test provides insight into coagulation balance, fibrin metabolism, and abnormal bleeding or clotting risk.

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Blood Draw

The Lupus Anticoagulant Evaluation with Reflex measures PTT-LA and dRVVT to detect lupus anticoagulant antibodies, which increase risk of abnormal clotting. Reflex tests such as Hexagonal Phase Confirmation, Thrombin Clotting Time, and dRVVT mixing are performed if results are prolonged. Doctors use this panel to evaluate unexplained clotting, recurrent miscarriage, or autoimmune disease, aiding in diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome.

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Also Known As: LA Test, LAC Test, Lupus Anticoagulant Panel Test, Lupus Inhibitor Test, LA Sensitive PTT Test, PTT-LA Test,

The Potassium Plasma Test evaluates potassium concentration in plasma, a key marker of electrolyte status, nerve signaling, and muscle contraction. Low or high levels may reflect kidney dysfunction, adrenal imbalance, dehydration, or acidosis. This test provides insight into cardiovascular function, metabolic health, and systemic conditions affecting electrolyte regulation and overall physiologic balance.

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The Protein C Activity Test measures the activity of protein C, a natural anticoagulant that regulates blood clotting. Low activity can indicate inherited or acquired protein C deficiency, increasing the risk of abnormal clot formation, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism. This test supports evaluation of clotting disorders and provides insight into overall coagulation balance and vascular health.

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The Protein C Activity and Antigen Test evaluates both the function and concentration of Protein C, a natural anticoagulant that helps regulate blood clot formation. Measuring protein activity and antigen levels aids in identifying inherited or acquired Protein C deficiency, assessing thrombosis risk, and supporting diagnosis of abnormal coagulation disorders or vitamin K–related conditions.


The Protein C Activity Test with Reflex to Protein C Antigen measures the functional activity of Protein C, a vitamin K–dependent anticoagulant that regulates clot formation. Low Protein C activity can increase the risk of abnormal blood clots and may result from congenital deficiency, liver disease, or vitamin K deficiency. Reflex testing to Protein C antigen helps distinguish between quantitative and functional deficiencies.


The Protein C Antigen Test measures the quantity of Protein C, a vitamin K–dependent anticoagulant that regulates clot formation. Low antigen levels may indicate inherited or acquired Protein C deficiency, which increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis or other clotting disorders. This test helps differentiate between quantitative and functional deficiencies when evaluating abnormal coagulation.

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In the United States, 100,000 people die due to blood clots annually. In addition to that, 900,000 people end up dealing with venous thromboembolism every year. These numbers are so high because these blood clots are not caught in time to get taken care of before it becomes a serious problem.

Continue reading to learn more about clotting disorders and blood coagulation tests. 

What Are Clotting Disorders?

The body has a natural blood clotting process known as hemostasis. The body forces the injured blood vessel to constrict, and then platelets are sent to the injury site. They attach to the wound, and coagulation occurs. 

In clotting disorders, excessive clotting takes place. This is also known as a hypercoagulable state. This allows large blood clots to form where they shouldn't: in the bloodstream. These blood clots make their way to the legs (venous thromboembolism), the lungs (pulmonary embolism), and even the arteries of the heart (arterial thrombosis), and they block off blood vessels.

Clotting Disorders Causes

In some cases, it is acquired via underlying health conditions. These conditions might include:

  • Prolonged immobilization or bed rest
  • Autoimmune disorders (like Lupus)
  • Cancer or malignant tumor growth
  • Catheter use
  • Pregnancy or childbirth
  • Medical drug use (Hormone Replacement Therapy, oral contraceptives, or Heparin)
  • Cholesterol or calcium buildup in the bloodstream
  • Blood vessel inflammation
  • Heart failure
  • Obesity

It can also be an inherited health condition through genetic mutations, such as:

  • Factor V Leiden mutation
  • Prothrombin 20210 mutation
  • MTHFR mutation

It can be an inherited health condition due to:

  • Antithrombin
  • Protein C and S
  • Elevated Factor VII levels

Catching these blood clots early makes all of the difference between life or death in these patients. Knowing the signs can help in diagnosing these blood clots in time to seek treatment. 

Signs and Symptoms of Clotting Disorders

The different signs and symptoms of blood clotting disorders depend on the location of the blood clot. If the clot is in the leg, the symptoms include:

  • Leg pain or tenderness
  • Edema or swelling
  • Discoloration in the leg

If the clot is in the lung, the symptoms might include:

  • Sudden shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Coughing up blood
  • Irregular heartbeat 
  • Fainting or lightheadedness
  • Anxiety

In other areas of the body, blood clot symptoms may mimic a heart attack or a stroke. If you find that you have any of these symptoms, you should speak with your doctor as soon as possible. 

There are certain tests that you can do to check for clotting disorders, so it's a good idea to be proactive if you notice you may have any of the risk factors associated with blood clotting disorders or you have any of the symptoms. 

Clotting Disorder FAQs

Should those with clotting disorders see a specialist? Your primary care physician can care for clotting disorders. However, when you have an active blood clot, you should make sure to see your hematologist to get it taken care of. 

If you are diagnosed with a clotting disorder, should your family members also get tested? Some of these conditions can be genetic. It is always a good idea for your family members to be tested for this disorder.

Who can have a blood clotting disorder? Men and women alike can have a clotting disorder. People of any age can develop a clotting disorder. They are more commonly diagnosed, however, among older teens and adults as they go through the normal changes in their blood.

Why Order Blood Coagulation Tests?

Blood coagulation tests are essential in finding possible blood clots throughout your body as a result of a clotting disorder. The tests that check for blood clotting include:

  • Prothrombin Time (PT)
  • Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT)

The Prothrombin Time (PT) test monitors how fast the blood clots. The Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) test monitors how long it takes for the blood to clot.

At Ulta Lab Tests, we also offer a:

  • Complete Blood Count test
  • Fibrinogen level test

The Complete Blood Count test will look for signs of anemia or a low platelet count, which can cause abnormal blood clotting. The Fibrinogen test monitors your fibrinogen level (a protein found in the liver). It looks for abnormalities that point to excessive bleeding problems. 

A phlebotomist performs these tests: they are not at-home test kits! We offer these tests at affordable pricing, and you don't need a referral or insurance to get this testing done. These tests also come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. 

Tests Needed to Confirm Low Platelet Counts

A low platelet count can be diagnosed, evaluated, and monitored through various blood tests. None of these tests can identify the cause of the low platelet count, but they can be used to identify the right treatment. These include the following:

  • Complete Blood Count – It is used to check the current platelet count and to identify if the bleeding has caused anemia (low hemoglobin levels).
  • Platelet Count – Checks the number of platelets in the blood, and it is part of the CBC test.
  • Blood Smear – It is done using a microscope to check the blood cells, including platelets.
  • Prothrombin Time and Partial Thromboplastin Time – It is used to check the clotting factors for proper clotting.
  • Basic Metabolic Panel or Comprehensive Metabolic Panel – Checks the overall health of your kidneys, liver, and other organs in your body.
  • Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy – Checks cell production in the bone marrow if you have a low platelet count.
  • Heparin-induced Thrombocytopenia – Checks the antibodies against heparin and diagnoses thrombocytopenia. You can get this test if you have undergone or are currently undergoing heparin therapy.
  • Antiphospholipid Antibodies – Used to diagnose an existing autoimmune disease such as antiphospholipid syndrome as the cause of the low platelet count or its association with your platelets.
  • Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) – Used to diagnose an underlying autoimmune disease such as Lupus and its association or cause of low platelets.
  • Vitamin B12 And Folate – Any deficiencies in these vitamins cause a low platelet count, anemia, and a low white blood cell count (known as leukopenia).
  • Hepatitis B, C, and HIV – These are viral infections often associated with low platelets. If you have a low platelet count and test positive for these infections, they are the cause of the low platelet count.

Get Started Today!

If you are showing signs of a blood clot, it's important to talk to a health professional immediately. If you are worried that you might have a blood clotting disorder, blood clotting tests are available for purchase through our website. Once you have the results, you can go over them with your doctor and go from there.

Order your blood coagulation tests today, and you will get your results in 24 to 48 hours. A secure and confidential online server then sends results.