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===ACT===
===ACT===
2:The activated clotting time (ACT) can be performed manually with the specific blood tubes containing
diatomaceous earth (ACT tubes, Becton Dickinson) or with an automated analyzer. If performed manually the
tubes must be kept at body temperature through out the procedure, this is ideally achieved by the use of a
controlled warm water bath or they can be kept under an arm and gently rocked. 2ml of blood are added to the
tube and the time from collection to clot formation is measured. The normal ACT in a dog is 90-120 seconds and
< 75 seconds in cats.
The ACT evaluates both the intrinsic and common coagulation pathways so it is prolonged with abnormalities or
deficiencies in factors XII, XI, IX, VIII, X, V, II or I. Because the ACT is a test on whole blood it can also be mildly
prolonged by thrombocytopenia (<50,000). Disease processes expected to prolong the ACT include DIC, liver
disease, Vitamin K antagonist poisons and hemophilia A & B.
===PT===
===PT===