What is the purpose of this test?
The Antithrombin III Antigen Blood Test measures the level of antithrombin III in your blood, a protein that helps control blood clotting. This test is important because antithrombin III helps prevent blood clots from forming too easily. If you have too little of this protein, you may be at a higher risk of developing dangerous blood clots that can lead to conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).
During the test, a blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The lab then measures the amount of antithrombin III in your blood. Low levels of this protein can be due to a genetic condition, liver disease, or other medical issues. By identifying low levels of antithrombin III, doctors can diagnose blood clotting disorders and decide on the best treatment to prevent serious complications from abnormal blood clotting.
Who should get this test?
The Antithrombin III Antigen Blood Test helps doctors see if someone has enough of a substance called antithrombin III in their blood. This substance helps prevent blood clots. Here's who might benefit from this test:
- People with a family history of blood clots
- Those who have had blood clots before
- Pregnant women with a history of blood clotting issues
- Patients with liver disease
- Individuals with conditions affecting their kidneys
If you fall into one of these groups, your doctor might suggest this test to check your antithrombin III levels and help manage your health better.
When should I order this test?
An Antithrombin III Antigen Blood Test is ordered by check if someone has enough of a substance called antithrombin III in their blood. Here's when they might order it:
- Swelling or pain in one leg or arm
- Sudden chest pain or trouble breathing
- Redness, warmth, or tenderness in a leg or arm
- Sudden severe headache or blurred vision
- Coughing up blood or blood in urine
- Feeling faint or dizzy
Sample Report
Also Known As:
functional antithrombin III; AT III
Preparation:
Fasting for 10-12 hours required. Avoid anabolic steroids, Gemfibrozil, Warfarin (Coumadin®), heparin therapy, asparaginase, estrogens, gestodene and oral contraceptives for 3 days prior to specimen collection. Check with your physician before stopping any medications.
Test Results:
8-12 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
