What is the reason for low prothrombin activity

Low prothrombin activity may be caused by vitamin K deficiency, liver disease, use of anticoagulant drugs, genetic coagulation factor deficiency, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and other factors.

1. Vitamin K deficiency:

Vitamin K is an essential cofactor for the synthesis of coagulation factors II, VII, IX, and X. Long term fasting, biliary obstruction, chronic diarrhea, or broad-spectrum antibiotic use may lead to impaired absorption of vitamin K. These patients often have symptoms such as subcutaneous bruising and gum bleeding, which can be improved by supplementing vitamin K or adjusting dietary structure.

2. Liver diseases:

Liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis can affect the synthesis function of coagulation factors. The degree of liver damage is positively correlated with prolonged prothrombin time, and these patients may have symptoms such as jaundice and ascites. Targeted treatment is required for the primary disease, and in severe cases, fresh frozen plasma can be infused to supplement coagulation factors.

3. Use of anticoagulant drugs:

Vitamin K antagonists such as warfarin can interfere with coagulation factor synthesis, reducing prothrombin activity to the therapeutic range of 30% -50%. During the medication period, INR values should be regularly monitored. If there is a tendency for bleeding such as nosebleeds or hematuria, the dosage should be adjusted. New oral anticoagulants such as rivaroxaban have little effect on prothrombin time.

4. Hereditary coagulation factor deficiency:

Hemophilia B factor IX deficiency or rare genetic diseases such as factor II, V, VII deficiency can all lead to abnormalities. These patients often have a family history or a history of recurrent bleeding since childhood, and need to be diagnosed through coagulation factor activity testing. Treatment is mainly based on alternative therapies.

5. Diffuse intravascular coagulation: DIC caused by severe infections, malignant tumors, etc. can consume a large amount of coagulation factors. In addition to abnormal coagulation function, patients often present with critical symptoms such as multiple organ failure and shock. Urgent treatment of the primary disease is required, along with supplementation of coagulation factors and platelets.

It is necessary to maintain a balanced diet in daily life to ensure the intake of vitamin K. Green leafy vegetables, animal liver and other foods are rich in vitamin K. Avoid alcohol and drug abuse, and those with abnormal liver function should limit high-fat diet. Long term use of anticoagulant drugs requires regular follow-up according to medical advice to avoid intense exercise and trauma. When experiencing bleeding symptoms such as unexplained bruising and black stool, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly to check coagulation function.