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| Test Code: |
PROTC |
| Description: |
Protein C functional. Protein C is a natural anticoagulant produced in the liver. It is vitamin K dependent and requires thrombin and thrombomodulin for activation. Activated protein C in the presence of co-factor protein S inactivates factors Va and VIIIa, thereby limiting coagulation. Patients heterozygous for deficiency of protein C or S may exhibit recurrent venous thrombosis at a young age (peak incidence between ages 15 and 40). Heterozygotes also appear to have an increased risk of Coumadin-induced skin necrosis. Patients homozygous for protein C deficiency present with generalized microvascular thrombosis in the neonatal period (purpura fulminanas). Normal neonates have lower levels of protein C than adults. See also Thrombosis screen and Activated Protein C Resistance. |
| Indications: |
Suspected protein C deficiency, evaluation of thrombophilia. |
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