BLEEDING TIME Meaning and
Definition
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Bleeding time refers to a medical test that assesses the adequacy of blood clotting and measures the time required for blood to stop flowing from a superficial cut. It is primarily used to evaluate platelet function and screen for certain bleeding disorders.
During the bleeding time test, a standardized incision, often made on the forearm, is performed using a lancet or a similar sterile instrument. The stopwatch is started as soon as the cut is made, and the subject's blood is allowed to flow freely through the wound. Blotting paper is used at regular intervals to determine if bleeding has stopped, and the time taken for the bleeding to cease completely is measured. The test typically lasts for up to around ten minutes but can be extended if necessary.
A normal bleeding time ranges from two to seven minutes, depending on the laboratory's reference values. Prolonged bleeding time may indicate a platelet disorder, such as von Willebrand disease or a deficiency in platelet function. Conversely, a shorter bleeding time may suggest excessive platelet function or abnormally high platelet count.
While bleeding time used to be a common diagnostic test for bleeding disorders, its clinical utility has decreased in recent years due to the availability of more accurate laboratory tests. However, it may still be used in certain cases, particularly when assessing primary hemostasis or when other laboratory tests are inconclusive.
Common Misspellings for BLEEDING TIME
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Etymology of BLEEDING TIME
The etymology of the phrase "Bleeding Time" can be traced back to Old English and Middle English.
The word "bleeding" comes from the Old English word "blēdan", which means "to bleed" or "to lose blood". This word has Germanic roots and is related to words in other Germanic languages such as German "bluten" and Dutch "bloeden".
The term "time" in this context refers to the duration or period of bleeding. It has its roots in the Old English word "tīma", which essentially means "time" or "period".
Therefore, "Bleeding Time" essentially refers to the period or duration during which blood is shed or lost. It is specifically used in medical contexts to describe the time it takes for blood to stop flowing from a puncture or a wound.
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