Thrombosis Panel

The Thrombosis Panel panel contains 4 tests with 4 biomarkers .

Comprehensive Assessment of Hypercoagulability and Thrombosis Risk

Introduction

Blood clotting is an essential function that prevents excessive bleeding when injuries occur. However, in some individuals, an increased tendency for abnormal clot formation, known as hypercoagulability, can lead to dangerous health conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), stroke, or heart attack. The Thrombosis Panel is designed to evaluate the underlying causes of an individual’s increased risk for blood clot formation by assessing key proteins involved in regulating blood coagulation.

This panel includes the following tests:

• Protein C Activity
• Protein S Activity
• Antithrombin III Activity
• Activated Protein C Resistance

By analyzing these critical components, healthcare providers can identify potential genetic or acquired clotting disorders and develop strategies to manage or prevent complications.

Test Descriptions

1. Protein C Activity

Protein C is a natural anticoagulant that helps prevent excessive clot formation by inactivating clotting factors Va and VIIIa. A deficiency or dysfunction in Protein C can lead to an increased risk of thrombosis, particularly deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

• Low levels may indicate:

  • Congenital Protein C deficiency
  • Liver disease
  • Vitamin K deficiency
  • Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
  • Use of warfarin or other anticoagulants

• High levels are rare but may be associated with acute inflammation or replacement therapy.

2. Protein S Activity

Protein S works in conjunction with Protein C to regulate clot formation. It enhances Protein C’s function in degrading clotting factors Va and VIIIa. Protein S exists in two forms: free Protein S (active form) and bound Protein S.

• Low levels may be caused by:
  • Congenital Protein S deficiency
  • Liver disease
  • Pregnancy
  • Hormonal therapy (e.g., oral contraceptives)
  • Vitamin K deficiency
  • Acute thrombosis or inflammation

Since Protein S deficiency increases the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), its evaluation is critical for diagnosing hypercoagulability disorders.

3. Antithrombin III Activity

Antithrombin III (ATIII) is a crucial inhibitor of thrombin and other clotting factors. It regulates clot formation by preventing excessive blood clotting.

• Low levels may be due to:

  • Congenital Antithrombin III deficiency (a genetic disorder leading to increased clot risk)
  • Liver disease
  • Nephrotic syndrome (kidney disorder causing protein loss)
  • Heparin therapy (may reduce ATIII levels)
  • Severe infections or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)

• High levels are uncommon but may be observed in acute inflammation or pregnancy.

A deficiency in Antithrombin III increases the likelihood of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and recurrent miscarriages.

4. Activated Protein C Resistance (APC-Resistance)

Activated Protein C Resistance (APC-Resistance) is a condition where the body's clotting system does not respond adequately to Protein C, leading to an increased risk of thrombosis.

• The most common cause of APC-Resistance is Factor V Leiden mutation, a genetic disorder that increases the likelihood of developing abnormal blood clots.
• APC-Resistance testing helps identify individuals at risk for recurrent venous thrombosis, especially in young adults or those with a family history of blood clots.

Symptoms & Conditions That May Indicate a Need for This Panel

Individuals experiencing the following conditions may benefit from the Thrombosis Panel:

• Unexplained blood clots (DVT or PE)
• Family history of thrombophilia (blood clot disorders)
• Recurrent miscarriages or pregnancy complications
• Unusual blood clot formation in atypical locations (e.g., brain, intestines, liver veins)
• History of stroke or heart attack at a young age
• Use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy associated with clotting issues
• Lupus anticoagulant or antiphospholipid syndrome (autoimmune-related clotting disorders)

Conclusion

The Thrombosis Panel provides a comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s blood clotting regulation system. By assessing Protein C, Protein S, Antithrombin III, and Activated Protein C Resistance, this panel helps identify genetic and acquired clotting disorders that contribute to hypercoagulability.

Early detection of these disorders allows healthcare providers to implement preventive measures, such as lifestyle modifications, anticoagulant therapy (e.g., warfarin, heparin, or direct oral anticoagulants), or alternative treatment plans to reduce the risk of life-threatening complications.

If you or your healthcare provider suspect a clotting disorder, the Thrombosis Panel can provide essential insights to guide your diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment decisions.