Fibrinogen Activity, Clauss Most Popular

The Fibrinogen Activity, Clauss test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The Fibrinogen Activity test, also known as the Clauss method or Fibrinogen assay, measures the functional activity of fibrinogen, a protein involved in blood clot formation. Fibrinogen plays a crucial role in maintaining proper coagulation and hemostasis. The Fibrinogen Activity test helps assess the functionality of fibrinogen and is used to evaluate bleeding disorders and monitor certain conditions related to clotting abnormalities.

Also Known As: Fibrinogen Activity Test, Factor 1 Assay Test, Cardiac Fibrinogen Test, Fibrinogen Test, Clotting factors Test

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Whole Blood

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When is a Fibrinogen test ordered?

A Fibrinogen Activity test may be ordered in several situations to assess fibrinogen levels:

1. Evaluation of Bleeding Disorders: The Fibrinogen Activity test is commonly ordered to evaluate bleeding disorders, such as congenital fibrinogen deficiencies or acquired fibrinogen disorders.

2. Monitoring Coagulation Disorders: In individuals with known coagulation disorders or those receiving anticoagulant therapy, the Fibrinogen Activity test helps monitor the functionality of fibrinogen and assess the risk of bleeding or clotting complications.

3. Evaluation of Thrombosis Risk: In certain situations, the Fibrinogen Activity test may be ordered to assess the risk of thrombosis or abnormal blood clot formation.

4. Preoperative Assessment: Prior to surgical procedures, especially those involving significant blood loss or when there is a suspected bleeding disorder, a Fibrinogen Activity test may be ordered to evaluate the clotting function and assess the risk of excessive bleeding.

What does a Fibrinogen blood test measure?

Fibrinogen is a protein that is a coagulation factor in the production of blood clots. A fibrinogen activity test determines how well fibrinogen aids in the formation of a blood clot, whereas a fibrinogen antigen test determines the amount of fibrinogen in the blood.

Fibrinogen is produced in the liver, and is then delivered into the bloodstream along with many other coagulation factor proteins. Hemostasis stops bleeding at the site of injury when a blood vessel or body tissue is damaged. Platelets, small cell fragments, stick to and cluster at the site, triggering a coagulation cascade in which clotting components are activated one by one.

As the cascade develops, soluble fibrinogen turns into insoluble fibrin strands. At the wound site, a fibrin net is created by the crosslinking of these threads and stabilizes it. Together with the platelets, the fibrin net adheres to the area of injury and creates a solid blood clot. This barrier prevents more blood loss and is present while the injured area recovers.

There must be enough typically functioning platelets and coagulation factors for a stable clot to form. It can cause bleeding episodes and/or the creation of an inappropriate blood clot if there are defective factors or platelets, or if there are too few or too many of them. Hemostasis can be assessed using a variety of laboratory techniques, including fibrinogen assays.

Coagulation tests are now known to be based on what happens artificially in the test setting and so do not always reflect what happens in the body. The tests can, however, be used to assess individual components of the hemostasis system. The fibrinogen activity test measures the amount of soluble fibrinogen that is transformed into fibrin threads during the hemostatic process. The fibrinogen test bypasses the rest of the coagulation factors and concentrates on the function of fibrinogen after adding thrombin to the test sample.

A fibrinogen activity test determines how long it takes for a fibrin clot to form after a standard dose of thrombin is added to plasma. This test assesses the function of fibrinogen, specifically its capacity to convert into fibrin. The amount of active fibrinogen present directly correlates with the time it takes for a clot to develop. Prolonged clot formation periods can be caused by low levels of normal fibrinogen or by fibrinogen that is dysfunctional.

Acute phase reactants are a group of blood components that include fibrinogen. When conditions cause acute tissue inflammation or injury, blood levels of fibrinogen and other acute phase reactants rise dramatically. These acute phase reactants, including fibrinogen, can be tested to see how much inflammation is present in the body.

Lab tests often ordered with a Fibrinogen test:

This test is often used to assess the blood's ability to clot properly and can be affected in a variety of bleeding disorders, liver disease, and during inflammatory states. Here are some tests that are commonly ordered alongside a Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test and the reasons why:

1. Prothrombin Time (PT):

   • Purpose: To assess the extrinsic and common coagulation pathways, which include factors I (fibrinogen), II (prothrombin), V, VII, and X.
   • Why Is It Ordered: A prolonged PT can indicate a deficiency or dysfunction in one of the factors measured by this test, which can contribute to a bleeding disorder.

2. Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT):

   • Purpose: To evaluate the intrinsic and common coagulation pathways, which include factors I, II, V, VIII, IX, X, XI, and XII.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Similar to PT, an extended aPTT can indicate deficiencies or abnormalities in the factors that are part of the intrinsic and common pathways.

3. D-dimer:

   • Purpose: To measure a specific degradation product that results from the breakdown of a blood clot.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To assess for the presence of an abnormal blood clotting process, such as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Elevated D-dimer levels can occur when there is significant fibrin formation and subsequent breakdown, often seen in conditions like DIC.

4. Platelet Count:

   • Purpose: To measure the number of platelets in the blood.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Platelets are integral to the clotting process, and abnormalities in platelet count can contribute to bleeding disorders.

5. Von Willebrand Factor (vWF) Antigen and Activity:

   • Purpose: To measure the amount and function of von Willebrand factor, which is critical for platelet adhesion and protection of factor VIII.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Abnormalities in vWF can lead to bleeding disorders and are especially relevant if a patient has an abnormal fibrinogen level with an otherwise unexplained bleeding tendency.

6. Factor Assays:

   • Purpose: To measure the activity of specific clotting factors, such as factor VIII, IX, or XI.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To investigate further if a specific factor deficiency is suspected based on abnormal clotting test results.

7. Liver Function Tests:

   • Purpose: To assess the health of the liver, which is responsible for producing many of the clotting factors, including fibrinogen.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Liver disease can lead to decreased production of clotting factors and subsequent bleeding risk.

8. Complete Blood Count (CBC):

   • Purpose: To provide a broad picture of blood health, including red and white blood cells and platelets.
   • Why Is It Ordered: CBC can help detect anemia, infection, and other conditions that can be associated with bleeding disorders or might impact the interpretation of coagulation studies.

These tests can help a healthcare provider determine if the fibrinogen activity is part of a larger coagulation disorder, assess the potential cause of abnormal fibrinogen levels, and guide appropriate treatment.

Conditions where a Fibrinogen test is recommended:

A Fibrinogen Activity test is commonly ordered for:

1. Congenital Fibrinogen Disorders: Inherited conditions such as afibrinogenemia or hypofibrinogenemia, characterized by low or absent fibrinogen levels, require a Fibrinogen Activity test for diagnosis and monitoring.

2. Acquired Fibrinogen Disorders: Certain conditions or situations, such as liver disease, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), or severe inflammation, can affect fibrinogen levels and functionality, warranting a Fibrinogen Activity test.

3. Bleeding Disorders: The Fibrinogen Activity test is crucial in evaluating bleeding disorders characterized by abnormal clotting or fibrinogen dysfunction.

4. Thrombotic Disorders: In some cases, a Fibrinogen Activity test may be ordered to assess the risk of abnormal blood clot formation or to evaluate conditions associated with hypercoagulability.

How does my healthcare provider use a Fibrinogen test?

Healthcare providers use the results of a Fibrinogen Activity test to:

1. Diagnose and Monitor Bleeding Disorders: Abnormal fibrinogen activity results aid healthcare providers in diagnosing bleeding disorders and monitoring treatment effectiveness in individuals with fibrinogen deficiencies.

2. Evaluate Thrombosis Risk: In specific clinical situations, healthcare providers use Fibrinogen Activity test results to assess the risk of abnormal blood clot formation or hypercoagulability.

3. Guide Treatment Decisions: Fibrinogen Activity test results help healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding treatment strategies, such as determining appropriate clotting factor replacement therapy or adjusting anticoagulant medications.

By effectively utilizing the results of a Fibrinogen Activity test, healthcare providers can diagnose bleeding disorders, evaluate thrombosis risk, guide treatment decisions, and make informed decisions regarding patient care and treatment interventions related to clotting abnormalities.

What do my fibrinogen activity test results mean?

The concentration of protein in the blood is reported as the result of a fibrinogen test. 

The presence of normal fibrinogen activity usually indicates that the blood clotting ability is normal.

Reduced or malfunctioning fibrinogen may be the cause of significantly reduced fibrinogen activity. Reduced fibrinogen activity and antigen levels can make it more difficult for the body to produce a stable blood clot.

Reduced production owing to a hereditary illness such as afibrinogenemia or hypofibrinogenemia, or a condition such as malnutrition or liver disease, can cause chronically low levels.

Acutely low levels are frequently associated with fibrinogen consumption, such as in disseminated intravascular coagulation and irregular fibrinolysis, which happens when the body is overly active in removing blood clots. Reduced fibrinogen levels can also occur as a result of quick, large-volume blood transfusions or in malnourished patients.

A ratio of the antigen test and the activity test is sometimes used by a doctor. This is to differentiate dysfibrinogenemia from hypofibrinogenemia.

Fibrinogen is an acute phase reactant, which means that it can rapidly rise in amounts in any situation that causes inflammation or tissue injury. Elevated fibrinogen concentrations aren't specific, which means they don't inform the doctor what's causing the problem or where it's happening. These increases in fibrinogen are usually just transitory, returning to normal after the underlying problem is treated. Elevated levels can be seen in the following ways:

• Infections that are severe
• Cancer
• Myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease
• Stroke
• Inflammatory conditions
• Trauma
• Smoking a cigarette
• Pregnancy
• Peripheral artery disease, a condition that affects the arteries
• When fibrinogen levels are high, a person's risk of cardiovascular disease and producing a blood clot is raised

Most Common Questions About the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test:

Understanding the Test

What is the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test?

The Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test is a laboratory test used to determine the level of fibrinogen in your blood. Fibrinogen is a protein that is essential for blood clotting. When you're injured and bleeding, fibrinogen is converted into fibrin, which forms a clot and helps stop the bleeding.

Why would a doctor order a Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test?

A doctor might order this test if they suspect a bleeding disorder, to monitor liver disease, or to monitor the status of a disorder known to affect fibrinogen levels. The test can also be used to monitor treatment of these conditions.

What conditions can the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test help diagnose?

The Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test can help diagnose conditions related to abnormal fibrinogen levels, such as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), fibrinogen deficiency (afibrinogenemia), or abnormal fibrinogen function (dysfibrinogenemia).

Preparing for the Test

Do I need to fast before a Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test?

No, fasting is typically not required before a Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test. However, always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.

Are there any medications that can affect the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test results?

Yes, certain medications can affect fibrinogen levels. These include anabolic steroids, phenobarbital, and oral contraceptives. It's important to inform your healthcare provider if you're taking any medication.

Interpreting Results

What are the normal ranges for the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test?

The normal range for fibrinogen level in the blood is between 175 to 425 mg/dL.

What does a low fibrinogen level mean in a Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test?

A low fibrinogen level can indicate a fibrinogen deficiency, which can be due to a genetic disorder, liver disease, or a condition called disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), which uses up fibrinogen.

What does a high fibrinogen level mean in a Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test?

A high fibrinogen level can occur in response to inflammation, infection, cancer, and during pregnancy. It's also increased in conditions that increase the risk of blood clots, such as coronary heart disease and stroke.

Follow-up and Treatment

What happens if my Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test results are abnormal?

If your fibrinogen levels are abnormal, your healthcare provider may order additional tests to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

What is the treatment for low fibrinogen levels?

Treatment for low fibrinogen levels depends on the cause and may include fibrinogen concentrate infusions, plasma infusions, or treating the underlying condition causing low fibrinogen.

What is the treatment for high fibrinogen levels?

Treatment for high fibrinogen levels also depends on the cause. It might involve addressing an underlying inflammatory condition, managing risk factors for cardiovascular disease, or using medications to control blood clot risk.

Comparisons with Other Tests

What is the difference between the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test and the PT/INRtest?

The Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test specifically measures the amount of fibrinogen in the blood, which is crucial for clot formation. The PT/INR (Prothrombin Time/International Normalized Ratio) test, on the other hand, measures the time it takes for blood to clot, which can be affected by various factors including fibrinogen levels, but also other factors involved in clot formation. Thus, while the two tests can both provide information about clotting, they measure different aspects of the process.

How does the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test differ from a Fibrinogen Antigen test?

While both tests measure fibrinogen, the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test measures the functional activity of fibrinogen, or how well it is working, whereas the Fibrinogen Antigen test measures the total amount of fibrinogen present, regardless of whether it is functional or not.

Clinical Relevance

Can the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test predict cardiovascular disease risk?

Elevated fibrinogen levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, as high levels can promote clot formation and atherosclerosis. Thus, the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test may be used as part of a comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular risk.

Can the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test be used to monitor response to therapy in certain diseases?

Yes, in diseases known to affect fibrinogen levels, such as liver disease or DIC, the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test can be used to monitor the response to treatment and the progression of the disease.

Additional Questions

Why might a doctor order a Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test instead of a Complete Blood Count (CBC)?

While a CBC can provide information about the different types of cells in the blood, it doesn't provide information about the proteins involved in blood clotting, such as fibrinogen. If a clotting disorder is suspected, a Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test may be more informative.

Why is the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test included in a coagulation panel?

A coagulation panel assesses various aspects of the blood's ability to clot. Because fibrinogen is a critical protein for blood clot formation, assessing its levels with the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test can provide important information about clotting function.

Can the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test be used to monitor anticoagulant therapy?

The Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test isn't typically used to monitor anticoagulant therapy. Instead, tests like PT/INR or aPTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time) are commonly used.

What could cause a false elevation in the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test?

Certain conditions such as inflammation, infection, and pregnancy can increase fibrinogen levels, as can some medications including oral contraceptives and estrogen.

What could cause a false decrease in the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test?

Severe liver disease, which disrupts fibrinogen production, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), which uses up fibrinogen, can decrease fibrinogen levels. Certain medications, like anabolic steroids, can also lower fibrinogen levels.

Does smoking affect the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test results?

Yes, smoking can increase fibrinogen levels and thereby potentially influence the results of the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test.

Is the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test used in emergency medicine?

Yes, in emergency medicine, the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test can be used in cases of severe bleeding or suspected coagulation disorders to guide treatment decisions.

What factors can affect the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test results?

Various factors can affect the results of this test. These include medications, pregnancy, inflammation, infection, and lifestyle factors such as smoking. Liver disease and bleeding disorders can also affect fibrinogen levels.

Can the Fibrinogen Activity Clauss test be used to monitor liver disease?

Yes, fibrinogen is produced by the liver, so fibrinogen levels can be affected by liver disease. This test can be part of the overall monitoring of liver function.

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