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[Reference values for protein C activity in healthy adults in Mexico]
L Sansores-García1, A Majluf-Cruz, F Vargas-Vorácková
1Departamento de Hematología, Instituto Nacional de la Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, México, D.F.
Summary
Screening for protein C (pC) deficiency in Mexico now includes reference levels for protein C activity (pCA). Functional deficiency may be more critical than quantitative levels for thrombosis risk assessment.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry and Hematology
- Coagulation Cascade Research
- Thrombosis and Anticoagulation Studies
Context:
- Protein C (pC) is a vital natural anticoagulant.
- Deficiencies in pC, whether acquired or hereditary, are linked to thrombosis.
- Current screening methods assess both pC concentration and biological activity.
Purpose:
- To establish reference levels for protein C activity (pCA) in a healthy adult Mexican population.
- To investigate the role of functional pC deficiency in thrombosis.
- To compare the utility of pCA testing versus quantitative pC levels in screening for deficiency states.
Summary:
- This study assessed pCA using a chromogenic assay in 88 healthy Mexican adults (15-69 years).
- Reference pCA values (2.5th-97.5th percentiles) were determined as 75% to 137% of normal plasma.
- Functional pC disorders can occur with normal quantitative levels, suggesting pCA is a crucial screening parameter.
Impact:
- Provides essential reference ranges for pCA in the Mexican population.
- Highlights the potential importance of functional pC assessment over quantitative measurement for initial screening.
- Aids in more accurate diagnosis and management of protein C deficiency and associated thrombotic risks.