Coagulation defect in experimental trypanosomial infection

Some coagulation parameters have been studied in animals experimentally infected with trypanosomial organisms (T. brucei or T. congolense). The partial thromboplastin time test with kaolin was regularly abnormally prolonged in all animals during infection. Although results of some coagulation factors in the intrinsic pathway cannot be used to explain this finding, it is suggested that the partial thromboplastin time test can be used as a test to monitor infection and recovery from this organism.