Prothrombin Time (PT) and Serum Albumin

PT depends on the hepatic synthesis of the Vitamin-K-dependent factors: II, VII, IX and X.

Elevation in PT may be a sign of hepatic insufficiency (usually advanced and chronic) or a deficiency of vitamin K (in the absence of anticoagulant therapy or disseminated intravascular coagulopathy–DIC).

Challenge with IV or IM vitamin K: correction of PT within 24-48 hr indicates vitamin deficiency.

Albumin is also synthesized in the liver: hepatic insufficiency causes decreased serum albumin.