Ecarin clotting time

Ecarin Clotting Time (ECT) is a laboratory test used to monitor anticoagulation in patients treated with direct thrombin inhibitors. The test is named after Ecarin, a metalloprotease found in the venom of the saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus).

Pronunciation

Ecarin Clotting Time: /ɛˈkærɪn ˈklɒtɪŋ taɪm/

Etymology

The term "Ecarin" is derived from the name of the snake species Echis carinatus, from which the venom is extracted. The term "clotting time" refers to the time it takes for a sample of blood to clot.

Procedure

The ECT test is performed by adding Ecarin to a plasma sample and then measuring the time it takes for the sample to clot. The Ecarin converts prothrombin to meizothrombin, which in turn initiates the clotting process. The time it takes for the clot to form is the ECT.

Use

The ECT test is primarily used to monitor the anticoagulant effects of direct thrombin inhibitors, such as Dabigatran. It is particularly useful in situations where a rapid assessment of anticoagulation status is required, such as before emergency surgery.

Related Terms

• Anticoagulant
• Dabigatran
• Prothrombin
• Meizothrombin
• Thrombin

See Also

• Activated Clotting Time
• Prothrombin Time
• Partial Thromboplastin Time

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Ecarin clotting time
• Wikipedia's article - Ecarin clotting time

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