Thromboelastography in dogs: interpreting R, K, angle and MA
7-year-old Yorkshire Terrier with chronic diarrhoea, ascites and hypoalbuminaemia due to protein-losing enteropathy. Thromboelastography (TEG) is performed on citrated whole blood.
| Parameter | Result | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| R (reaction time) | 2.1 min | 2.0–8.0 |
| K | 0.8 min | 1.0–4.0 |
| Alpha angle | 78° | 45–75 |
| MA (maximum amplitude) | 84 mm | 45–70 |
| Albumin | 1.4 g/dL | 2.6–4.0 |
What is the correct interpretation of the thromboelastogram?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Hypocoagulability due to factor deficiency
A factor deficiency would lengthen R and K and reduce the angle and MA. Here the opposite happens: the clot forms quickly and is very firm.
B. Hypercoagulability, with increased clot strength (high MA)
Correct. Short K, increased alpha angle and high MA indicate rapid formation of a very strong clot. MA mainly reflects platelet and fibrinogen contribution. Protein-losing enteropathy (antithrombin loss) predisposes to thromboembolism.
C. Hyperfibrinolysis
Hyperfibrinolysis appears as a rapid fall in amplitude after MA is reached (increased lysis at 30–60 minutes), not as a raised MA.
D. Normal tracing, because R is within range
R assesses the onset of fibrin formation, but TEG is interpreted as a whole. Abnormal K, angle and MA indicate a prothrombotic state even with a normal R.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Thromboelastography assesses global coagulation in whole blood and, unlike PT and aPTT, detects hypercoagulability. Typical prothrombotic states in dogs are IMHA, protein-losing nephropathy and enteropathy, hypercortisolism and sepsis.
Test yourself with 10 random questions
Clinical pathology · 100 questions, a different test every time
Related questions
Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.