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partial thromboplastin time

test of the intrinsic (factors viii, ix, xi, and xii) and common (fibrinogen, prothrombin, factors v and x) pathways of coagulation in which a mixture of plasma and phospholipid platelet substitute (e.g., crude cephalins, soybean phosphatides) is recalcified and the time required for the appearance of fibrin strands measured. Activation may be provided by contact with the glass tube or exposure to activators (e.g., ellagic acid, particulate silicates such as diatomaceous earth or kaolin) before addition of the calcium chloride. It is used as a screening test and to monitor heparin therapy.