Ordering Guidance

This test should only be considered if clinical and family history, initial coagulation screens, and initial protein C activity and antigen tests indicate a diagnosis of antithrombin deficiency (see Testing Algorithm). This test does not measure protein C activity or antigen levels.

For assessment of protein C activity, order CFX / Protein C Activity, Plasma. If protein C activity is low, protein C antigen testing could help distinguish between type I and type II deficiencies; order PCAG / Protein C Antigen, Plasma.

For assessment of protein C antigen, order PCAG / Protein C Antigen, Plasma.

If genetic testing for hereditary blood clotting disorders using a larger panel is desired, a 16-gene comprehensive thrombosis panel is available; order GNTHR / Thrombosis Disorders, Comprehensive Gene Panel, Next-Generation Sequencing, Varies.

Testing for the PROC gene as part of a customized panel is available. For more information see CGPH / Custom Gene Panel, Hereditary, Next-Generation Sequencing, Varies.

Targeted testing for familial variants (also called site-specific or known variants testing) is available for variants identified in the PROC gene. See FMTT / Familial Variant, Targeted Testing, Varies. To obtain more information about this testing option, call 800-533-1710.

Shipping Instructions

Specimen preferred to arrive within 96 hours of collection.

Necessary Information

Rare Coagulation Disorder Patient Information is required. Testing may proceed without the patient information, however, the information aids in providing a more thorough interpretation. Ordering providers are strongly encouraged to fill out the form and send with the specimen.

Specimen Required

Specimen Type: Whole blood

Patient Preparation: A previous bone marrow transplant from an allogenic donor will interfere with testing. Call 800-533-1710 for instructions for testing patients who have received a bone marrow transplant.

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Lavender top (EDTA)

Acceptable: Yellow top (ACD)

Specimen Volume: 3 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Invert several times to mix blood.

2. Send whole blood specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.

Specimen Stability Information: Ambient (preferred) 4 days/Refrigerated