Ordering Guidance

This activity assay is most effective when it is combined with measurement of von Willebrand factor antigen and factor VIII coagulant activity, preferably as a panel of tests with reflexive testing and interpretive reporting. See AVWPR / von Willebrand Disease Profile, Plasma.

Additional Testing Requirements

Tests for F8A / Coagulation Factor VIII Activity Assay, Plasma and VWAG / von Willebrand Factor Antigen, Plasma are recommended in conjunction with this test (von Willebrand activity).

Specimen Required

Specimen Type: Platelet-poor plasma

Collection Container/Tube: Light-blue top (3.2% sodium citrate)

Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial (polypropylene preferred)

Specimen Volume: 2 mL in 2 vials each containing 1 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Specimen must be collected prior to factor replacement therapy.

2. For complete instructions, see Coagulation Guidelines for Specimen Handling and Processing.

3. Centrifuge, transfer all plasma into a polypropylene vial, and centrifuge plasma again.

4. Aliquot plasma (1-2 mL per aliquot) into 2 separate polypropylene vials leaving 0.25 mL in the bottom of centrifuged vial.

5. Freeze plasma immediately (no longer than 4 hours after collection) at -20° C or, ideally, ≤-40° C.

6. Send specimens in the same shipping container.

Additional Information:

1. Double-centrifuged specimen is critical for accurate results as platelet contamination may cause spurious results.

2. Each coagulation assay requested should have its own vial.