Definition of Prothrombin

Prothrombin: A coagulation (clotting) factor that is needed for the normal clotting of blood. A cascade of biochemical events leads to the formation of the final clot. In this cascade, prothrombin is a precursor to thrombin.

Prothrombin is also known as thrombinogen and, in medical jargon, as pro. See also: Prothrombin mutation G20210A; and Prothrombin time.


Last Editorial Review: 4/27/2011 5:27:15 PM

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