Quick Guide to Coagulation Testing

The Quick Guide to Coagulation Testing -- a joint effort of the Departments of Pathology and Diagnostic and Therapeutic Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham -- is intended for health practitioners, residents, and students. Ordering and interpreting laboratory assays is often taken for granted, but the complexity of coagulation testing renders the understanding of laboratory results even more critical than in other areas. Lack of awareness of the effect of clinical conditions or the interference of drugs on hemostasis test results may lead to disastrous misinterpretations. The Guide was designed to be used as a speedy reference for anyone who orders, collects, performs, or interprets hemostasis laboratory tests. Its pocket size offers immediate access at the time and location tests are ordered. We included the most common hemorrhagic and thrombotic conditions, their treatment with blood products or anticoagulants, and treatment monitoring. Diseases and assays are listed together. Our experience suggests that the Guide will be a valuable resource for many medical professionals.