What is the clinical significance of prolonged bleeding time

Prolonged bleeding time usually indicates abnormal hemostatic function, which may be caused by factors such as thrombocytopenia, hemophilia, aspirin use, genetic bleeding disorders, or liver dysfunction.

1. Thrombocytopenia: When the platelet count is below the normal range, the initial hemostatic function is impaired. Diseases such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and aplastic anemia can lead to reduced platelet production, manifested as skin bruising, nosebleeds, and other symptoms. Blood routine examination can clarify platelet count, and bone marrow puncture can help identify the cause.

2. Von Willebrand disease:

Lack of von Willebrand factor leads to impaired platelet adhesion. These patients have significantly prolonged bleeding time, often accompanied by gum bleeding, excessive menstruation, and other symptoms. Laboratory tests show a decrease in the level of von Willebrand factor antigen, which requires differential diagnosis with hemophilia.

3. Drug effects:

Antiplatelet drugs such as aspirin prolong bleeding time by irreversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and certain antibiotics may also affect platelet function. The collection of medication history is crucial for determining the cause of bleeding, and usually the bleeding time can gradually return to normal after discontinuation of medication.

4. Genetic diseases:

Rare diseases such as hereditary telangiectasia and thrombocytopenia may manifest as prolonged bleeding time. This type of disease often has a family history, accompanied by characteristic clinical manifestations, and genetic testing can assist in diagnosis.

5. Liver disease:

Severe liver disease leads to reduced synthesis of coagulation factors, which may be accompanied by thrombocytopenia. In addition to prolonged bleeding time, patients often experience prolonged prothrombin time, accompanied by liver dysfunction such as jaundice and ascites. For patients with prolonged bleeding time, it is recommended to complete laboratory tests such as blood routine, coagulation function, and von Willebrand factor testing. In daily life, one should avoid vigorous exercise and external injuries, and use a soft bristled toothbrush to reduce the risk of gum bleeding. In terms of diet, foods rich in vitamin K such as spinach and broccoli can be appropriately increased, but the dosage of anticoagulant drugs should be adjusted under the guidance of a doctor. When symptoms such as unexplained bruising and recurrent nosebleeds occur, timely medical attention should be sought to avoid delaying the diagnosis and treatment of coagulation dysfunction.