Abstract
Summary
The difference between prothrombin times of whole and diluted plasma is a more reliable guide to prothrombin activity of the blood than is the prothrombin time of either alone. The difference has been found to be fairly constant in normal individuals. When prolonged, it indicates hypoprothrombinemia. When reduced, it may signify hyperprothrombinemia or an excess of anticoagulants in the blood. The procedure recommended is well suited for following the therapeutic effects of agents which influence the prothrombin level (or activity) such as dicumarol or vitamin K.
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