Protein C
Protein C is a protein found in the blood of human beings. Protein C helps prevent blood clotting and controls the clotting process with protein S. When the blood does not comprise enough of this protein, or it does not function properly, there's a rampant blood clot formation in the body which may lead to a clotting disorder.
Protein C Test is recommended to detect a potential hypercoagulable or excessive clotting disorder. Excessive clot formation may lead to venous thromboembolism (VTE) or deep venous thrombosis (DVT).
Why is the test ordered?
The test may be prescribed to help check for a potential hypercoagulable or excessive clotting disorder and to help determine the cause of venous thromboembolism (VTE) or deep venous thrombosis (DVT). The test may also be ordered to help find the cause of repeated miscarriages.
When is the test ordered?
When a physician finds thromboembolism in a relatively young patient with no apparent or obvious reasons or risk factors of clot formation, then he or she may order a protein C testalong with a protein S test. The test may also be ordered when a newborn shows signs and symptoms of a very severe clotting disorder: disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) or purpurafulminans.
How is the sample collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm.
How to prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions given by your doctor.
