Name of the Procedure:

Reptilase Test

• Common Names: Reptilase Time, RT test
• Medical Term: Reptilase Clotting Time (RCT)

Summary

The Reptilase test measures the time it takes for a clot to form in a blood sample after the addition of reptilase, an enzyme derived from snake venom. It helps in diagnosing blood clotting disorders by evaluating the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin.

Purpose

The Reptilase test is used to:

• Assess blood clotting function.
• Help diagnose bleeding disorders such as fibrinogen abnormalities.
• Determine the cause of prolonged bleeding or abnormal clot formation.

Indications

• Unexplained bleeding or bruising.
• Screening for blood clotting disorders, especially when other coagulation tests (e.g., thrombin time) are inconclusive.
• Monitoring fibrinogen levels in patients with liver disease or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

Preparation

• No specific fasting or preparation is required.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any medications they are taking, as certain drugs may affect clotting.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein, usually in the arm.
2. The blood sample is then sent to the laboratory.
3. In the lab, reptilase, an enzyme extracted from snake venom, is added to the blood sample.
4. The time it takes for the fibrin clot to form after the introduction of reptilase is measured.

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard blood collection supplies, reptilase enzyme.
• Anesthesia/Sedation: Not required.

Duration

• The blood draw typically takes only a few minutes.
• Laboratory processing and analysis may take a few hours to a day.

Setting

• The blood sample is drawn in a healthcare provider’s office, clinic, or hospital.
• Laboratory analysis is performed in a specialized coagulation lab.

Personnel

• Blood draw: Phlebotomist or nurse.
• Lab analysis: Medical laboratory technologist.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Minor discomfort or bruising at the blood draw site.
• Rare Risks: Infection at the puncture site, lightheadedness or fainting.

Benefits

• Provides valuable information to diagnose or rule out blood clotting disorders.
• Helps guide appropriate treatment options for patients with clotting abnormalities.
• Results are usually available within a day, allowing for prompt medical action.

Recovery

• No special post-procedure care is needed beyond routine care of the blood draw site.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.

Alternatives

• Other blood coagulation tests like thrombin time (TT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), or prothrombin time (PT).
• Pros and Cons: The Reptilase test is more specific for fibrinogen issues compared to other clotting tests, which might be affected by different factors.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Slight sting or pinch during blood draw; otherwise, minimal discomfort.
• After the Procedure: Minor soreness or bruising at the puncture site, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief if necessary.