Difference between INR and Quick value

The quick value and the INR value describe the same thing in principle, namely how fast the blood coagulates. The Quick value has been used for many years, but has the disadvantage that it is not standardized and can therefore vary from laboratory to laboratory. The newer INR value was developed to solve this problem.

It is, so to speak, a standardization of the quick-value. The two values are inversely proportional to each other. This means that as the Quick value decreases, the INR value increases and as the Quick value increases, the INR value decreases.

INR value too high

If the INR value is too high, i.e. above the target range, the risk of unintentional bleeding increases. This can be mundane bleeding, such as nosebleeds or secondary bleeding after minor injuries. However, serious bleeding can also occur.

Examples include bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract and cerebral hemorrhage. Such bleeding can be potentially life-threatening. An INR value that is too high can also cause bruising.

INR value for Marcumar® intake

In order to determine the INR value in the course of a normal blood test in the laboratory, a blood tube containing citrate is taken. The citrate ensures that the blood does not coagulate directly after collection. Once in the laboratory, blood clotting is triggered and the time is measured. This time is called prothrombin time. The prothrombin time is then converted into an INR value by an appropriate device.

INR measuring device for home use

Since some patients need to measure the INR value relatively frequently, there are devices for INR measurement that the patient can use at home. This means that the patient does not have to visit the family doctor for every INR value check. These devices work in a similar way to the devices for measuring blood glucose in patients suffering from diabetes mellitus.

A test strip is inserted into the device, to which a drop of blood is applied. After a few seconds the device displays the INR value. After training the patient, he can adequately determine his Marcumar® dose himself on the basis of the INR measurement.