Mixing study

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Mixing Study

Mixing study (pronunciation: /ˈmɪksɪŋ ˈstʌdi/) is a laboratory test used to identify the cause of prolonged coagulation tests, such as prothrombin time (PT) or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). It helps to differentiate between a factor deficiency (a problem with the blood clotting factors) and an inhibitor (a substance that stops the factors from working properly).

Etymology

The term "mixing study" comes from the process of mixing the patient's plasma with normal plasma to observe the effect on coagulation times.

Procedure

In a mixing study, the patient's plasma is mixed with normal plasma in a 1:1 ratio. The PT or aPTT is then measured again. If the coagulation time corrects (or nearly corrects) to within the normal range, this indicates a factor deficiency. If the coagulation time does not correct, this suggests the presence of an inhibitor.

Related Terms

  • Coagulation: The process by which blood changes from a liquid to a gel, forming a blood clot.
  • Prothrombin time (PT): A test that measures how long it takes for clotting to occur in a sample of blood.
  • Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT): Another test that measures the time it takes for blood to clot.
  • Blood clotting factors: Proteins in the blood that work together to make a blood clot.
  • Inhibitor: A substance that slows down or stops a chemical reaction. In this context, it refers to a substance that interferes with the blood clotting process.

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