DATE:
March 30, 2009
TO:
HHS and SJH Medical Staff
FROM:
Dr. C. Hayward, Head, Regional Coagulation Laboratory, HRLMP
RE:
DISCONTINUATION OF BLEEDING TIME IN HRLMP
Please be advised that effective April 1, 2009, bleeding time (BT) testing will no longer be
offered through the Hamilton Regional Laboratory Medicine Program (HRLMP).
The utilization of the BT within the HRLMP has decreased significantly over the last two years
and there is no evidence to support its ongoing use in the assessment of bleeding disorders,
including the evaluation of von Willebrand disease. This is due in part to the BT’s poor
sensitivity and specificity, particularly when compared with the more specific diagnostic testing
offered through light transmission platelet aggregometry.
Our conclusion to discontinue bleeding time testing is supported by the literature as
documented in the references presented below.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact:
Karen Moffat, Technical Specialist
Coagulation, HRLMP
Ph: (905) 521-2100, Ext. 73124, or
E-Mail: moffat@hhsc.ca
References:
1.
2.
Hayward CP, Pai M, Liu Y, Moffat KA, Seecharan J, Webert KE, Cook RJ, Heddle NM.
Diagnostic utility of light transmission platelet aggregometry: results from a prospective
study of individuals referred for bleeding disorder assessments. J Thromb Haemost.
2009 Jan 7. [Epub ahead of print]
HRLMP Newsletter. Update on the bleeding time in the assessment of bleeding
problems. Issue # 88, June 2006.
___________________________________
Catherine P.M. Hayward, MD, PhD, FRCPC
Head, Specialized Coagulation Laboratory
______________________________________
Mark Crowther, MD, FRCPC
Discipline Director, Hematology