In toxicology, assessing the aPTT is essential for determining the effects of anticoagulants, which are substances that inhibit blood clotting. Many toxins and drugs can either prolong or shorten the aPTT, indicating potential coagulation disorders. For instance, a prolonged aPTT may suggest the presence of toxins that interfere with specific clotting factors, while a shortened aPTT might indicate an increased risk of thrombosis due to hypercoagulability.