Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen, Nephelometry

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Cardio IQ Fibrinogen Antigen, Nephelometry, Fibrinogen Antigen, Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry Cardio IQ

Fibrinogen Antigen,

Low levels of fibrinogen are associated with bleeding most commonly secondary to liver disease or Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC). Fibrinogen is an acute phase reactant and thus elevated levels may be associated with inflammation. Increased concentrations are also associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis.
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The Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen, Nephelometry test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry Test is an advanced blood test that utilizes nephelometry technology to measure the level of fibrinogen, a protein produced by the liver, in the bloodstream. Fibrinogen plays a critical role in the blood clotting process, serving as a precursor to fibrin, which forms the basic structure of a clot.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Plasma

Test Preparation: Overnight fasting is required

This is a Cardio IQ™ test and will likely need an additional 5-7 days for processing.

When and Why a Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry Test May Be Ordered

Healthcare providers may order the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry Test for several reasons:

  1. Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Elevated fibrinogen levels have been linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Thus, this test may be used as part of a broader cardiovascular risk evaluation.
  2. Assessment of Clotting Disorders: Individuals with symptoms suggestive of bleeding or clotting disorders might undergo this test to gauge fibrinogen levels as part of their diagnostic evaluation.
  3. Monitoring Treatment Efficacy: For patients already diagnosed with certain clotting disorders, the test can be useful in monitoring the effectiveness of treatments that aim to regulate fibrinogen levels.

What the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry Test Checks For

This specific test assesses the quantity of fibrinogen present in the blood. Elevated levels of fibrinogen can be indicative of inflammation in the body, increased risk of clot formation, and heightened cardiovascular risk. Low levels may suggest a bleeding disorder or liver disease.

Other Lab Tests Ordered Alongside Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry Test

When a Cardio IQ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test is ordered, it's typically part of a broader evaluation of cardiovascular risk and clotting disorders. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

  1. Lipid Profile:

    • Purpose: To measure levels of total cholesterol, HDL (high-density lipoprotein), LDL (low-density lipoprotein), and triglycerides.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess the overall risk of cardiovascular disease, as lipid levels are key indicators of this risk.

  2. High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP):

    • Purpose: To measure the level of CRP, a marker of inflammation in the body.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Inflammation plays a significant role in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease; hs-CRP can help in assessing this risk.

  3. Homocysteine:

    • Purpose: To measure the level of homocysteine, an amino acid linked to cardiovascular risk and thrombosis.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Elevated homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

  4. Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a):

    • Purpose: To measure levels of Lp(a), a type of lipoprotein associated with increased cardiovascular risk.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Lp(a) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and its measurement can provide additional risk stratification.

  5. Coagulation Panel (PT/INR, aPTT):

    • Purpose: To assess the blood’s ability to clot.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To evaluate overall clotting function, particularly if there is concern about bleeding disorders or thrombosis.

  6. D-Dimer:

    • Purpose: To measure a substance that is released when a blood clot breaks up.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To help rule out active clotting or thrombosis, although it is not specific for diagnosing cardiovascular disease.

  7. Glucose and Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c):

    • Purpose: To measure blood sugar levels and identify diabetes or prediabetes.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Diabetes is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Cardio IQ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test, provide a comprehensive evaluation of a person's risk for cardiovascular disease and thrombotic disorders. They are crucial for identifying individuals at higher risk and for guiding interventions to reduce this risk. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s medical history, risk factors, and current health status.

Conditions or Diseases Requiring a Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry Test

  • Cardiovascular Diseases: Conditions such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease have been associated with elevated fibrinogen levels.
  • Clotting Disorders: Conditions that predispose individuals to form blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.
  • Bleeding Disorders: Conditions like disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) which can cause abnormal bleeding and clotting simultaneously.
  • Liver Diseases: The liver produces fibrinogen, so diseases affecting liver function can result in abnormal fibrinogen levels.

Usage of Results by Health Care Providers

Healthcare providers utilize the results of the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry Test to:

  • Risk Stratification: Identify individuals at higher risk for cardiovascular events and guide preventive strategies.
  • Disease Diagnosis: Confirm or rule out clotting or bleeding disorders.
  • Treatment Guidance: Adjust therapeutic approaches based on fibrinogen levels.
  • Patient Monitoring: Track the effectiveness of treatments and monitor for disease progression or regression.

In essence, the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry Test offers valuable insights into an individual's cardiovascular health, clotting capabilities, and overall inflammatory status. Its results guide clinical decision-making and patient care in various contexts.

Most Common Questions About the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen, Nephelometry test:

Purpose and Clinical Indications

What is the primary objective of the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test?

The Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test primarily aims to measure the concentration of fibrinogen in the blood. Fibrinogen is a protein essential for blood clot formation. Elevated fibrinogen levels can indicate an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases, like heart attack and stroke, as well as other clot-related disorders.

Why is the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test ordered by clinicians?

The Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test is often ordered as a part of a comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment. Elevated fibrinogen levels can suggest inflammation in the body, which is a known risk factor for various cardiovascular conditions. This test aids clinicians in determining a patient's overall risk and devising an appropriate treatment or preventive strategy.

Interpretation of Results

What do elevated results in the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test signify?

Elevated fibrinogen levels, as indicated by the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test, can imply an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. High fibrinogen levels are linked with inflammation, which plays a role in atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaques inside arteries). Besides, elevated fibrinogen might suggest a greater risk for clot-related disorders, including deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

If the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test results are normal, does that mean a person has no cardiovascular risks?

While a normal fibrinogen level is a positive sign, it doesn't rule out all cardiovascular risks. The Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test is only one piece of the puzzle. Clinicians consider various other factors, including cholesterol levels, blood pressure, family history, and lifestyle habits, to assess an individual's overall cardiovascular risk.

Clinical Insights

Can lifestyle changes impact the outcomes of the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test?

Yes, lifestyle changes can influence fibrinogen levels and, subsequently, the outcomes of the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test. Adopting a healthier lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, reduced alcohol consumption, and refraining from smoking, can potentially lower fibrinogen levels. It's always advised to consult with a healthcare professional about individual risks and potential benefits of specific lifestyle modifications.

Are there any conditions or situations other than cardiovascular risks that might elevate fibrinogen levels?

Certainly, while elevated fibrinogen levels can be indicative of increased cardiovascular risk, they can also rise due to other reasons. Acute inflammatory conditions, infections, certain cancers, and even stress can result in higher fibrinogen levels. Moreover, surgery, trauma, or even pregnancy can elevate fibrinogen temporarily. It's essential to interpret the Cardio IQ™ Fibrinogen Antigen Nephelometry test results in the broader context of an individual's health and other clinical findings.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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