Is prothrombin time 16.0 severe

Prothrombin time of 16.0 seconds is considered mildly prolonged and should be judged based on specific clinical conditions. The main influencing factors include vitamin K deficiency, warfarin anticoagulant therapy, liver dysfunction, genetic coagulation factor deficiency, and disseminated intravascular coagulation.

1. Vitamin K deficiency:

Vitamin K is an essential coenzyme for the synthesis of coagulation factors II, VII, IX, and X. Insufficient intake, such as long-term fasting, absorption disorders, biliary diseases, or dysbiosis of the gut microbiota, can all lead to deficiency. Symptoms include gum bleeding and subcutaneous bruising, which can be corrected by oral or injection of vitamin K. At the same time, liver and gallbladder diseases need to be investigated.

2. Effects of anticoagulant drugs:

Warfarin prolongs PT by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent coagulation factor synthesis. INR values should be monitored regularly during medication, with a target range typically between 2.0-3.0. If PT is significantly prolonged with bleeding tendency, medication should be reduced or suspended, and vitamin K should be used as an antagonist if necessary.

3. Liver function impairment:

Diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis lead to a decrease in the ability of the liver to synthesize clotting factors. Often accompanied by symptoms such as jaundice and ascites, liver protection treatment is needed to improve liver function. In severe cases, fresh frozen plasma can be infused to supplement coagulation factors.

4. Hereditary coagulation defects:

Hemophilia B factor IX deficiency or rare genetic diseases such as factor V and VII deficiency can cause PT prolongation. Diagnosis should be confirmed through coagulation factor activity testing, and corresponding coagulation factor preparations should be supplemented in case of acute bleeding.

5. Diffuse intravascular coagulation: During DIC, a large amount of coagulation factors are consumed, leading to prolonged PT, which is often secondary to infections, malignant tumors, or obstetric emergencies. The typical manifestation is multiple site bleeding with thrombus formation, requiring urgent treatment of the primary disease and supplementation of coagulation factors and platelets.

Avoid vigorous exercise and trauma in daily life to reduce the risk of bleeding. Increase the intake of green leafy vegetables such as spinach and broccoli, which are rich in vitamin K, but those taking warfarin need to maintain a stable diet. Regularly check coagulation function. If severe bleeding symptoms such as vomiting blood, black stool, or joint hematoma occur, seek medical attention immediately. Elderly patients and long-term anticoagulants are recommended to wear hemostatic dressings at home and avoid using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and other drugs that affect coagulation.