Antithrombin III Antigen details
What Antithrombin III Antigen shows
Antithrombin, also called antithrombin III, is a protein made by your liver that acts as one of the body's main natural brakes on blood clotting. The antigen test measures how much of the protein is present, while a separate activity test shows how well it works. It is measured when looking for causes of blood clots, especially at a young age or when clots run in the family, and when the blood thinner heparin seems less effective. A low level can point to an inherited deficiency or to reduced production or increased use, as with liver disease, recent clots or some kidney conditions. It is interpreted alongside antithrombin activity and other clotting tests.
Tests that include Antithrombin III Antigen
Aids in characterization of Antithrombin deficiency (AT, previously referred to as Antithrombin III) which is associated with increased thrombotic risk. Type I deficiency is characterized by reduction in activity and antigen levels simultaneously. With type II deficiency, activity levels are lower in comparison to the antigen levels (dysfunctional protein). Acquired deficiency, more common than inherited defects, can occur due to: liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, heparin therapy, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), sepsis, and L-asparaginase chemotherapy.
- Antithrombin III Antigen Measures the amount of antithrombin, a natural anticlotting protein, in your blood, used when looking for causes of an increased tendency to clot.
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