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→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 the results will be affected by thrombocytopenia, making them unreliable. The small wound inflicted may also not stop bleeding easily.
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 tool producing a uniform incision is used<sup>3</sup> 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 at a site away from the incision, without disturbing clot formation or applying pressure. Normally, bleeding should stop within 3 minutes, and a BMBT of greater than 5 minutes is considered prolonged<sup>2</sup>. utes and
To perform the BMBT test, a standardised tool producing a uniform incision is used<sup>2, 3</sup> 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 at a site away from the incision, without disturbing clot formation or applying pressure. Normally, bleeding should stop within 3 minutes, and a BMBT of greater than 5 minutes is considered prolonged<sup>2</sup>.
The vascular platelet phase of hemostasis consists of a primary vasoconstriction that serves to decrease blood flow, followed by adherence of platelets to the ruptured endothelium (adhesion) and each other (aggregation). This platelet aggregate, called the platelet plug, stops the bleeding and forms a matrix for the clot. The bleeding time is an excellent screening test for the vascular platelet phase of hemostasis. It depends on an intact vasospastic response in a small vessel and an adequate number of functionally active platelets.
The BMBT is influenced by all the aspects of this phase, including vasoconstriction, platelet adherence and plately aggregation. Although this makes BMBT an effective screening test for the vascular/platelet (primary) phase of haemostasis, it also means it is not purely a test for thrombocytopathia, as it is often considered: BMBT depends on an intact vasospastic response and adequate platelet numbers as well as platelet function<sup>3</sup>.
Clinical Significance
Clinical Significance