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1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Laboratory Room 3408, Alameda County Medical Center/Highland General Hospital, 1411 East 31st Street, Oakland, CA 94602, USA. vang@acmedctr.org
Clinics in Laboratory Medicine
|August 12, 2009
Summary
This review covers common anticoagulants like warfarin and heparin, detailing their laboratory testing. It highlights International Normalized Ratio testing variability and discusses newer anticoagulants and their associated coagulation tests.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Hematology
Background:
- Warfarin and heparin are widely used anticoagulants.
- Accurate laboratory testing is crucial for effective anticoagulant therapy.
- Variability in testing methods can impact patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common anticoagulants and their laboratory testing.
- To emphasize International Normalized Ratio (INR) testing modes and variability.
- To discuss newer anticoagulants and their associated coagulation tests.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of anticoagulants and laboratory testing.
- Analysis of International Normalized Ratio (INR) testing variations.
- Discussion of coagulation testing for novel anticoagulants.
Main Results:
- Common anticoagulants (warfarin, heparin) require specific laboratory monitoring.
- International Normalized Ratio (INR) testing shows variability across different settings (lab, POC, self-testing).
- Newer anticoagulants (e.g., direct factor Xa, direct thrombin inhibitors) have distinct testing requirements.
Conclusions:
- Understanding anticoagulant testing is vital for safe and effective use.
- Awareness of INR testing variability is necessary for clinical decision-making.
- Appropriate laboratory testing is essential for newer anticoagulant agents.
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