How does liver cirrhosis affect coagulation profiles?

In liver cirrhosis, the functionality of the liver is compromised, leading to a decreased production of various coagulation factors that are essential for proper blood clotting. The liver synthesizes most of the clotting factors, including prothrombin and factors V, VII, IX, and X. As cirrhosis progresses, the ability of the liver to produce these factors diminishes, which directly impacts the coagulation profiles.

Increased prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) are significant clinical markers that indicate a longer than normal clotting process. The elevation in PT and aPTT represents a defect in the extrinsic and intrinsic pathways of coagulation, respectively. This is due to the reduced levels of clotting factors produced by the damaged liver tissue. Consequently, monitoring PT and aPTT in patients with liver cirrhosis can help assess the severity of liver dysfunction and the associated risk of bleeding complications.

Therefore, the correct answer is that liver cirrhosis can lead to increased PT and aPTT, reflecting the impact of impaired clotting factor synthesis on the coagulation system.