| Description: |
Antithrombin (AT III) is a natural anticoagulation synthesized in the liver that inhibits thrombin as well as activated factors IX and X. The inhibitory effect of AT III is markedly enhanced by heparin; this is the basis for the use of heparin in anticoagulation therapy. Hereditary or acquired deficiency at AT III with levels <50% to 60% of normal is associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis. |
