Final answer:
Laboratory studies related to heparin therapy often include activating Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) and serum heparin levels, with complete blood counts being useful for broader health checks although not specific to heparin therapy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Laboratory studies related to heparin therapy typically include measuring activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT), which is a test that evaluates the intrinsic pathway of coagulation and is used to monitor the therapeutic effect of heparin. Another relevant lab test includes serum heparin levels to determine the concentration of heparin in the blood. Although not specific to heparin therapy, complete blood counts (CBC) may be helpful to rule out other conditions that could affect clotting, such as low platelet counts or anemia.
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is not generally used to monitor heparin therapy since it measures inflammation and is not specific to coagulation. When heparin is used therapeutically, blood samples may be collected into tubes containing lithium heparin and centrifuged to obtain plasma for analysis. The careful monitoring of these parameters is critical in patients undergoing heparin therapy to prevent excessive bleeding or clotting.