Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Author Spotlight: Deciphering Coagulation Disorders in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients
Published on: August 4, 2023
Case Report: Differential diagnosis and clinical management of isolated prolonged activated partial thromboplastin
1Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao) of Shandong University, Qingdao, China.
An unexpected, isolated prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) frequently poses diagnostic challenges in coagulation laboratories. This article presents two patients exhibiting isolated prolonged APTT, one with significant bleeding manifestations and another without bleeding symptoms. The first patient was diagnosed with acquired hemophilia A (AHA), whereas antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) were suspected to be responsible for the isolated prolonged APTT in the second patient. Accurate identification of the underlying cause of isolated prolonged APTT is crucial for proper diagnosis and subsequent therapeutic management. Furthermore, we summarize potential causes of isolated prolonged APTT and propose a simplified diagnostic algorithm to distinguish between lupus anticoagulants (LA) (more common) and coagulation factor deficiencies (less common). This report aims to provide insights into the clinical management of similar cases in the future.
An unexpected, isolated prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) frequently poses diagnostic challenges in coagulation laboratories. This article presents two patients exhibiting isolated prolonged APTT, one with significant bleeding manifestations and another without bleeding symptoms. The first patient was diagnosed with acquired hemophilia A (AHA), whereas antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) were suspected to be responsible for the isolated prolonged APTT in the second patient. Accurate identification of the underlying cause of isolated prolonged APTT is crucial for proper diagnosis and subsequent therapeutic management. Furthermore, we summarize potential causes of isolated prolonged APTT and propose a simplified diagnostic algorithm to distinguish between lupus anticoagulants (LA) (more common) and coagulation factor deficiencies (less common). This report aims to provide insights into the clinical management of similar cases in the future.
Related Concept Videos
Anticoagulant Drugs: Low-Molecular-Weight Heparins
Anticoagulant Drugs: Vitamin K Antagonists and Direct Oral Anticoagulants
Warfarin, a prominent vitamin K antagonist family member, exerts its effect by inhibiting the enzyme VKORC1 (vitamin K epoxide reductase complex 1). By hindering this enzyme, warfarin...
Disorders of Hemostasis
Thromboembolic Disorders
Two factors primarily cause thromboembolic conditions.
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care

