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Test Code GNANT Antithrombin Deficiency, SERPINC1 Gene, Next-Generation Sequencing, Varies


Ordering Guidance


This test should only be considered if clinical and family history, initial coagulation screens, and/or initial antithrombin (AT) activity and antigen testing results suggest a diagnosis of antithrombin deficiency (see Testing Algorithm).

 

This test does not measure AT activity levels. For assessment of AT activity, order ATTF / Antithrombin Activity, Plasma.

 

If genetic testing for hereditary blood clotting disorders using a larger panel is desired, a 16-gene comprehensive thrombosis panel is available; order GNTHR / Thrombosis Disorders, Comprehensive Gene Panel, Next-Generation Sequencing, Varies.

 

Testing for the SERPINC1 gene as part of a customized panel is available. For more information see CGPH / Custom Gene Panel, Hereditary, Next-Generation Sequencing, Varies.

 

Targeted testing for familial variants (also called site-specific or known variants testing) is available for the SERPINC1 gene. See FMTT / Familial Variant, Targeted Testing, Varies. To obtain more information about this testing option, call 800-533-1710.



Shipping Instructions


Specimen preferred to arrive within 96 hours of collection.



Necessary Information


Rare Coagulation Disorder Patient Information is required. Testing may proceed without the patient information; however, the information aids in providing a more thorough interpretation. Ordering providers are strongly encouraged to fill out the form and send with the specimen.



Specimen Required


Specimen Type: Whole blood

Patient Preparation: A previous bone marrow transplant from an allogenic donor will interfere with testing. Call 800-533-1710 for instructions for testing patients who have received a bone marrow transplant.

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Lavender top (EDTA)

Acceptable: Yellow top (ACD)

Specimen Volume: 3 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Invert several times to mix blood.

2. Send whole blood specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.

Specimen Stability Information: Ambient (preferred) 4 days/Refrigerated


Forms

1. Rare Coagulation Disorder Patient Information (T824) is required.

2. New York Clients-Informed consent is required. Document on the request form or electronic order that a copy is on file. The following documents are available:

-Informed Consent for Genetic Testing (T576)

-Informed Consent for Genetic Testing (Spanish) (T826)

3. If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Coagulation Test Request (T753) with the specimen.

Testing Algorithm

The clinical workup for antithrombin (AT) deficiency should begin with an AT activity assay.

 

Genetic testing for AT deficiency is indicated if:

-AT activity assay is less than 80% of normal (Note: reference range may vary depending on the locally established reference range)

-There is a clinical suspicion of hereditary thrombophilia and possible AT deficiency due to family history or atypical clinical presentation

-Acquired (nongenetic) causes of AT deficiency have been excluded (eg, liver disease, acute thrombosis, heparin therapy, nephrotic syndrome, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and chemotherapeutic agents such an L-asparaginase)

Note: Low AT levels may be temporarily associated with other conditions such severe trauma, severe burns, or the presence of acute blood clots.

Method Name

Sequence Capture and Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) followed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Sanger Sequencing

Specimen Type

Varies

Specimen Minimum Volume

1 mL

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Varies Varies

Reject Due To

All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.

Clinical Information

Antithrombin (AT) deficiency is a rare hereditary blood clotting disorder (thrombophilia) associated with germline variants in the SERPINC1 gene. It is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner with variable penetrance; both men and women may be affected. The prevalence varies widely, with estimates between 1 in 500 to 1 in 5000 individuals.(1-3)

 

AT deficiency is characterized by defects in the concentration or function of AT, a natural anticoagulant in blood plasma. It leads to the highest risk of venous thromboembolism among the known inherited thrombophilias. In some cases, patients have resistance to heparin therapy. Affected women have a particularly elevated risk for pregnancy-related complications, including thromboembolic events during pregnancy and after delivery, as well as fetal loss.(4-7)

 

Acquired (nongenetic) AT deficiency is more common than inherited AT deficiency and should be excluded prior to genetic testing. Causes of acquired AT deficiency include liver disease, acute thrombosis, heparin therapy, nephrotic syndrome, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and chemotherapeutic agents, such an L-asparaginase.(4,8)

 

The British Society for Haematology provides guidelines regarding diagnosis, management, and laboratory testing for individuals with hereditary thrombophilias including AT deficiency.(9)

Reference Values

An interpretive report will be provided.

Day(s) Performed

Varies

Report Available

28 to 42 days

Performing Laboratory

Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester

CPT Code Information

81479