Question:easy

The extrinsic system of coagulation is activated by?

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The pathway from outside the vessel begins with tissue factor.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Factor XI
  • Factor X
  • Factor XII
  • Factor III
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Coagulation runs along two arms. The intrinsic arm starts inside the vessel from contact activation (Factor XII), and the extrinsic arm starts from outside the vessel after tissue injury.

Step 2: Injured tissue releases tissue factor, which is named Factor III or tissue thromboplastin. This is the spark for the extrinsic pathway.

Step 3: Tissue factor joins Factor VII and calcium ions to switch on Factor X. From Factor X onward both arms share the common pathway, so Factor X is convergence rather than the extrinsic starter, and Factors XI and XII sit in the intrinsic arm.

Step 4: Hence the molecule that activates the extrinsic system is Factor III.

\[\boxed{\text{Factor III (tissue factor)}}\]
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