What is the reason for low prothrombin time

Low prothrombin time may be related to factors such as vitamin K deficiency, liver disease, genetic coagulation factor deficiency, drug effects, and blood dilution. Prothrombin time is an important indicator reflecting the function of exogenous coagulation pathways. A low value indicates an accelerated blood clotting rate, and other tests need to be combined to clarify the specific cause.

1. Vitamin K deficiency

Vitamin K is an essential coenzyme for the synthesis of coagulation factors II, VII, IX, and X. Long term imbalanced diet, chronic diarrhea, biliary obstruction, etc. can lead to vitamin K absorption disorders. Patients may experience symptoms such as subcutaneous bruising and gum bleeding. It can be supplemented by oral intake of vitamin K1 tablets or injection of vitamin K1, while increasing the intake of foods rich in vitamin K such as spinach and broccoli.

2. Liver diseases

Liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis can lead to reduced synthesis of coagulation factors. When liver function is impaired, although it is mostly manifested as prolonged prothrombin time, transient underestimation may occur in some compensatory periods. Patients often have symptoms such as jaundice and ascites. It needs to be improved through liver protection treatment, such as using compound glycyrrhizin tablets, injectable hepatocyte growth promoting hormone, and other drugs.

3. Hereditary coagulation factor deficiency

Hereditary coagulation factor V or VII activity is relatively rare, and these patients are born with coagulation factor structural abnormalities. There is usually a family history of bleeding, which may manifest as persistent bleeding after minor trauma. Diagnosis requires coagulation factor activity testing, and if necessary, fresh frozen plasma infusion for correction.

4. Drug Effects

Long term use of anticoagulants such as warfarin and sudden discontinuation of medication, or excessive supplementation of vitamin K antagonists, may cause a rebound enhancement in coagulation function. Some traditional Chinese medicines such as Sanqi powder may also interfere with the coagulation mechanism. It is necessary to monitor the international standardized ratio and adjust the medication plan under the guidance of a doctor.

5. Blood dilution

Large amounts of intravenous infusion and physiological increase in blood volume during pregnancy can lead to relative blood dilution, but the concentration of coagulation factors does not actually decrease. This physiological change usually does not require special treatment and can recover on its own after childbirth or cessation of infusion. If other symptoms are combined, pathological factors should be excluded.

found that low prothrombin time should be avoided through vigorous exercise and trauma, and high-fat diet intake should be reduced to prevent the risk of thrombosis. Suggest improving D-dimer and platelet function tests, and conducting thromboelastography if necessary. Pregnant women and long-term medication users should regularly monitor their coagulation function and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as lower limb swelling and chest pain occur.