Kaolin Clotting Time Test

This test evaluates your blood's ability to clot using kaolin as a clotting agent. Kaolin is combined with a test plasma. Clotting time is measured after a brief incubation period and addition of calcium chloride. This test helps detect clotting disorders, assess bleeding risks before surgery, and monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant medications.

This test is done primarily to:

• Diagnose clotting disorders
• Assess bleeding risk pre-surgery
• Monitor anticoagulant therapy
• Investigate unexplained bleeding or bruising
• Evaluate liver disease impact on blood clotting

This test is recommended in:

• Suspected clotting disorder symptoms
• Preparation for surgical procedures
• Individuals on anticoagulant therapy
• Liver disease patients
• Those with uncontrolled bleeding issues

• Elevated results may indicate clotting disorder.
• Abnormalities could suggest liver disease or medication impact.
• Discuss results with your doctor for further evaluation.

You'll provide a citrated plasma sample for testing how quickly your blood clots using the kaolin method.

• Simple blood test requiring only a small sample
• Blood draw process
• Sample analysis in the lab

Before this test:

• No fasting required
• Inform healthcare professionals about medications
• Do not stop anticoagulants without consulting your doctor

Follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider.

Other tests that your doctor may recommend include:

• Prothrombin time: Assesses blood's ability to clot.
• Activated partial thromboplastin time: Checks other clot formation factors.
• Fibrinogen level testing: Evaluates fibrinogen essential for clot formation.
• D-dimer test: Rules out blood clot-related issues.

Kaolin Activated Clotting Time or KCT or KACT Test

Coagulation disorders refer to conditions affecting blood clotting mechanisms, leading to excessive bleeding or abnormal clot formation. These disorders include Haemophilia, Von Willebrand disease, and deep vein thrombosis, affecting normal haemostasis and coagulation processes in the body. These disorders are also sometimes known as thrombophilias.