Pro CR global: an effective screening test for thrombophilia

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Clinical Chemistry
• Thrombosis Research

Background:

• The protein C (PC) and protein S (PS) pathway is crucial for anticoagulation.
• Deficiencies or resistance in this pathway are linked to thrombotic events.
• Accurate screening for these deficiencies is vital for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the Pro C(R) Global test as a screening tool for PC/PS pathway activity.
• To assess the test's performance against established diagnostic methods for anticoagulant factors.

Main Methods:

• The Pro C(R) Global test was performed on 300 patients with a history of thrombosis.
• Further laboratory tests (PC, PS, APCR, LAC) were conducted on patients with abnormal or normal Pro C(R) Global results.
• Sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy were calculated.

Main Results:

• The Pro C(R) Global test was positive in 74 patients, with 66 showing a defect in the PC/PS/APCR or LAC pathway.
• Sensitivity was 97% and specificity was 50%, with a diagnostic accuracy of 88.1%.
• Two patients with PS deficiency tested negative with Pro C(R) Global.

Conclusions:

• The Pro C(R) Global test is a sensitive screening tool for detecting abnormalities in the PC/PS/APCR/LAC pathway.
• It can be effectively used to identify patients requiring further investigation for thrombophilia.
• While highly sensitive, its specificity suggests confirmatory testing is necessary.