Abnormally short activated partial thromboplastin times are related to elevated plasma levels of TAT, F1+2, D-dimer and FVIII:C.

Abnormally short activated partial thromboplastin times (APTTs) are associated with an increased risk of thrombotic disorders. We have examined the status of coagulation activity in subjects with short APTTs. In addition, the presence of the thrombotic risk factors G1691A-factor V, G20210A-prothrombin gene mutation and factor VIII coagulant activity (FVIII:C) was determined. Plasma levels of TAT, F1+2, D-dimer and FVIII:C were markedly higher in subjects with short APTTs compared with subjects with normal APTTs. APTTs were inversely related to TAT, F1+2, D-dimer and FVIII:C levels. The prevalence of G1691A-factor V and G20210A-prothrombin gene mutation between the group with short APTTs and the control group was not significantly different. Hence, these gene polymorphisms do not contribute to the increased risk of thrombosis associated with short APTTs. In conclusion, short APTTs are indicative of marked coagulation activity and elevated FVIII:C levels. Elevated FVIII:C levels may play a pathogenic role in the increased risk of thrombosis associated with abnormally short APTTs. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel