[Laboratory control of anticoagulant treatments (author's transl)]

Laboratory control of anticoagulant treatments is still unclear, in spite of 25 years experience, better knowledge of the mechanisms of action of the different drugs, and the new techniques available. In general, laboratory control includes a test specific for the action of the drug involved, associated or not with a test that reflects global coagulability. During heparin treatment, the association of recalcification time or activated partial thromboplastin time with heparin levels is recommended. A weekly platelet count can eliminate heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. During oral anticoagulant treatment, the association of thromboplastin time or Owren's thrombotest with activated partial thromboplastin time is indicated. The therapeutic ranges for thromboplastin times are different according to the reagents used and should be specified by the laboratory since present methods of standardization are not yet satisfactory.