A toxin inhibits hepatic synthesis of fibrinogen and several clotting factors. Which immediate clinical lab and physical signs would you evaluate to confirm the expected physiological effect?

• A. Prolonged clotting times (prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time) on lab tests and increased bruising or bleeding tendency on physical exam
• B. Immediate loss of vision because clotting factors are required inside retinal photoreceptors for light transduction
• C. Elevated fasting blood glucose due to clotting factor inhibition increasing gluconeogenesis in the liver
• D. Hyperreflexia and spasticity because clotting factor deficiency directly increases neuromuscular excitability

Answer: (A)