Venous Thrombosis Screen - PCR is a comprehensive blood test that investigates the presence of specific gene mutations known to increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Venous thromboembolism is a condition where blood clots form in the veins, often in the deep veins of the leg (deep vein thrombosis, DVT), and can travel to the lungs causing a pulmonary embolism (PE), which can be life-threatening.
The test checks for Factor V Leiden mutation, Prothrombin gene mutation, and MTHFR gene mutation. These genetic changes can lead to an overproduction of clotting factors or diminish the effectiveness of natural anticoagulants in the blood, thus raising the risk of clot formation. Identifying these mutations can help in predicting an individual's risk of developing VTE and inform appropriate preventive and treatment strategies.
Test NameVDRL / Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) Test - Serum
Sample TypeBT
Preparations RequiredNo special preparations such as fasting are required for this test.
Report Time5 days
What is Venous Thrombosis?
Venous Thrombosis is a condition characterized by the formation of blood clots in the veins, often in the deep veins of the leg, known as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). These clots can dislodge and travel to the lungs causing a life-threatening condition called Pulmonary Embolism (PE).
What are the risk factors for Venous Thrombosis?
Risk factors for Venous Thrombosis include a family history of blood clots, prolonged bed rest or immobility, injury to veins, certain surgeries, pregnancy, oral contraceptive use, hormone replacement therapy, cancer, obesity, and certain genetic conditions.
Home Sample Collection Process
1
Book your convenient slot
2
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
3
Reporting of the sample at lab
4
Download Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
Factor V Leiden mutation is a genetic mutation that makes the blood more prone to clotting. It is the most common hereditary hypercoagulability (prone to clotting) disorder amongst ethnic Europeans.
Prothrombin gene mutation (Factor II mutation) is a genetic variation that increases the production of prothrombin, a protein that plays a key role in the clotting process, leading to a higher risk of blood clots.
The MTHFR gene mutation can lead to high levels of homocysteine, a type of amino acid in your blood. High homocysteine levels are linked to an increased risk of forming blood clots.
This test may be recommended for people who have a personal or family history of venous thrombosis, unexplained blood clot formation, recurrent pregnancy loss, or those under consideration for hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives.
The test is performed on a blood sample, which is obtained through a simple venipuncture procedure.
A positive result indicates the presence of one or more of the tested gene mutations. This signifies an increased risk for venous thromboembolism, but it does not guarantee the condition will occur.
A negative result indicates the absence of the tested gene mutations. However, it does not eliminate the possibility of developing venous thrombosis, as the condition can be caused by other risk factors not tested in this screening.
Certain conditions such as liver disease, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, or renal disease can influence the levels of homocysteine and might affect the test results.
If the test results are positive, your healthcare provider might recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or possibly surgical interventions, depending on the individual’s overall health status and specific risk factors.
A positive test result indicates an increased risk of venous thrombosis, and further medical evaluation will be necessary. This may include additional testing, counseling on preventive measures, and possible treatments based on individual circumstances.
This test does not detect all genetic variations associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis. Furthermore, a positive result does not mean that a clot will certainly form, just as a negative result does not guarantee that a clot will not form.
If you're found to have one of these genetic mutations, it may help explain previous unexplained clotting episodes and enable you and your healthcare provider to take steps to reduce the risk of future clotting events.
This test is reliable for detecting specific genetic mutations associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis. However, it's not a diagnostic test and does not replace clinical evaluation and other diagnostic procedures. Always consult with your healthcare provider for appropriate interpretation of these test results.
Yes, venous thrombosis can be treated. Treatment typically involves anticoagulant medications to prevent further clot formation, and in some cases, procedures to remove or dissolve existing clots.
If you have a positive result, the frequency of testing depends on your individual circumstances, including your overall health, family history, and whether you've had a clot before. Your healthcare provider will provide the best guidance.
The test involves a standard blood draw, which is generally safe with minimal risks. Some people might experience slight pain or bruising at the site where the needle was inserted, but these effects usually subside quickly.
Yes, the test can be used in children, especially if there is a family history of venous thromboembolism or if the child has symptoms suggestive of a clotting disorder. However, the decision will be made by a healthcare provider based on individual circumstances.
No, this test does not directly detect venous thrombosis. It detects specific genetic mutations that increase the risk of developing venous thromboembolism. If venous thrombosis is suspected, other diagnostic tests like ultrasound or CT scan are typically used.
Venous thrombosis can be life-threatening if the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. Therefore, if you have risk factors for venous thrombosis, early detection and management are crucial.
Yes, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and staying hydrated can help reduce the risk of blood clots, even if you have these genetic mutations.
Venous thrombosis refers to clots in the veins, often in the legs (DVT), which can travel to the lungs (PE). Arterial thrombosis refers to clots in the arteries, which can lead to heart attack or stroke.
Yes, people who have had venous thrombosis are at an increased risk of recurrence. This risk is further elevated in individuals with genetic mutations such as Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin gene mutation, and MTHFR gene mutation.
Yes, several measures can help prevent venous thrombosis. These include lifestyle modifications, wearing compression stockings if advised, and taking anticoagulant medication if you're at high risk. It's also important to move around as soon as possible after surgery or during other periods of prolonged immobility.
