Detection and management of hypercoagulability

Patients at high risk of having thromboses can be identified not only on the basis of clinical criteria but also on the basis of laboratory studies. With use of a condensed coagulation profile consisting of six laboratory tests, the clinical impression of hypercoagulability can be confirmed in approximately 90 per cent of cases. Therapy directed to correct specific laboratory abnormalities may be more efficacious than nonspecific therapy.