Utilization of testing for activated protein C resistance in a reference laboratory

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Thrombosis Research
• Clinical Pathology

Background:

• Activated protein C (APC) resistance is a significant inherited thrombotic disorder.
• It is considered the most common cause of inherited thrombosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prospectively evaluate laboratory testing for APC resistance over one year.
• To assess the prevalence and diagnostic challenges of APC resistance in a reference laboratory setting.

Main Methods:

• Prospective laboratory testing analysis over a 1-year period.
• Comparison of APC resistance testing rates with other inherited thrombotic disorders.
• Evaluation of sample evaluability based on anticoagulant therapy.

Main Results:

• APC resistance testing was performed at a significantly lower rate compared to other inherited thrombotic disorders.
• The observed prevalence of APC resistance was 12%, lower than previously reported figures.
• 37% of submitted samples were not evaluable due to anticoagulant therapy.

Conclusions:

• Clinical pathologists and practitioners require increased awareness of APC resistance.
• Optimizing sample collection protocols is essential to improve the efficiency of diagnosing this thrombotic disorder.