Which factor has the shortest half-life among the clotting factors synthesized by the liver?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for information regarding the half-lives of various clotting factors that are synthesized by the liver, specifically seeking to identify which one has the shortest half-life.
Answer
Factor VII
The clotting factor synthesized by the liver that has the shortest half-life is Factor VII.
Answer for screen readers
The clotting factor synthesized by the liver that has the shortest half-life is Factor VII.
More Information
Factor VII is known to have the shortest half-life among the hepatically synthethized clotting factors, generally ranging from about 2 to 6 hours. This short half-life makes it a sensitive indicator in liver function tests, such as the prothrombin time (PT), which is often one of the first tests to indicate liver impairment.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the shortest half-life with the shortest activity period in the coagulation cascade. Make sure to differentiate between half-life and functional role.
Sources
- Clotting Factors | Lab Tests - 5MinuteConsult - 5minuteconsult.com
- Factor VII - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics - sciencedirect.com
- Factor VII Deficiency - Medscape Reference - emedicine.medscape.com
