6,502
edits
Changes
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
→Buccal Mucosal Bleeding Time
===Buccal Mucosal Bleeding Time===
===Buccal Mucosal Bleeding Time===
The buccal mucosal bleeding time is a simple test that gives a rapid assessment of platelet function, providing platelet numbers are normal. If platelet numbers are below 50x10<sup>9</sup>l, this test should not be performed since bleeding may not be as easily stopped.
The buccal mucosal bleeding time is a simple test that gives a rapid assessment of platelet function, providing platelet numbers are normal. If platelet numbers are below 50x10<sup>9</sup>/l, this test should not be performed since the results will be affected by thrombocytopenia, making them unreliable. The small wound inflicted may also not stop bleeding easily.
To perform the BMBT test, a standardised device is used to make an incision in the buccal mucosa of the upper lip, and the time between making the incision and the cessation of bleeding is measured<sup>2</sup> During the procedure the lip should be kept turned outwards, with excess blood being gently absorbed without disturbing clot formation a away from the site of the incision. Normally, bleeding should stop within 3 minutes, and a BMBT of greater than 5 minutes is considered prolonged<sup>2</sup>. utes and
upper lip. The duration of time between making the incision and the cessation of bleeding is measured. The upper
lip is kept turned up (usually by a gauze muzzle) through out the procedure and blood is gently absorbed away
from the incision without disturbing the clot. A normal BMBT is considered to be approximately 3 minutes and
greater than 5 minutes is considered prolonged.
greater than 5 minutes is considered prolonged.
Abnormalities in platelet function and significant thrombocytopenia (<50,000/microL) will cause prolongations in
Abnormalities in platelet function and significant thrombocytopenia (<50,000/microL) will cause prolongations in