Dcp-Decarboxy Prothrombin Pivka-Ii in Ahmedabad

DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin (PIVKA-II) Test: Price, Purpose, Range & Reports

Test Overview

The Decarboxy Prothrombin (DCP), also widely known as Protein Induced by Vitamin K Absence or Antagonist-II (PIVKA-II), is a sophisticated blood test used primarily as a biomarker for liver health and the detection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer. In a healthy liver, prothrombin is entirely "carboxylated" using Vitamin K. In the presence of HCC, this process is often impaired, leading to the release of the abnormal, uncarboxylated form of DCP (PIVKA-II) into the bloodstream. Elevated levels of this marker are strongly associated with the presence, severity, and recurrence of liver cancer.

This test is a crucial tool for surveillance in high-risk groups, particularly when combined with other biomarkers such as Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP). If you are looking for an accurate DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test price or a convenient test near you, Apollo 24|7 provides verified laboratory services for reliable, timely results.

What is the DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test?

The DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II test is a sophisticated immunoassay designed to quantify an abnormal protein in the blood known by two names: Des-Gamma-Carboxy Prothrombin (DCP) or Protein Induced by Vitamin K Absence or Antagonist-II (PIVKA-II).

To understand its significance, one must consider the liver's normal function. The liver produces prothrombin, a key protein in the blood clotting cascade. For prothrombin to be fully functional, it must undergo a crucial post-translational modification called gamma-carboxylation, which depends on adequate levels of Vitamin K.

In patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) or severe liver dysfunction, the enzyme complex needed for this carboxylation process is often deficient. This disruption prevents the prothrombin precursor from being correctly finished. Instead of releasing functional prothrombin, the dysfunctional liver cells release the incomplete, uncarboxylated form—DCP/PIVKA-II.

Measuring the concentration of this abnormal protein in the serum serves as a sensitive and specific tumour marker. The test allows clinicians to gain insight into the biological activity of potential tumours, making it invaluable for screening, diagnosis, and tracking the efficacy of cancer treatment.

What is the DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test Price?

The DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test price reflects the complexity of the quantitative immunoassay required to measure this specific tumour marker. Several elements influence the final cost of your test:

• Technology Used: The test relies on automated, specialised immunoassay analysers to ensure rapid, precise quantitative measurement of the abnormal protein, thereby enhancing the test's overall value.
• Location: Prices may vary slightly across cities and regions due to differences in local operating costs and logistical factors.
• Service Type: Choosing a convenient home sample collection may reduce the total cost of travel and service charges.
• Lab Accreditation: Tests conducted at accredited labs, such as those operated by Apollo, ensure high standards of accuracy and reliability, which are essential for results used in critical cancer surveillance.

If you're looking for the most accurate and affordable DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test price near you, the easiest way is to check the Apollo 24|7 website or app. They update prices regularly based on your location, so you’ll always see the latest rates and any available offers.

What is the Purpose of the DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test?

The primary purpose of the DCP/PIVKA-II test is its application in the diagnosis and management of liver cancer.

• Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): It is a specific tumour marker, often used in combination with Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) to detect HCC.
• Monitoring Disease Progression: The level of DCP can be monitored over time to track the growth or stability of known liver tumours.
• Assessing Treatment Efficacy: A significant drop in DCP levels after surgery, chemoembolization (TACE), or radiofrequency ablation suggests a positive response to treatment. Conversely, rising levels may indicate recurrence.
• Surveillance in High-Risk Patients: It is essential to screen patients with chronic liver conditions, such as cirrhosis or chronic Hepatitis B or C, who are at high risk of developing HCC.

Who Should Get a DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test Done?

This test is generally recommended for patients who have pre-existing liver conditions that significantly increase their risk of developing liver cancer. This includes individuals with a history of:

• Liver Cirrhosis: Due to any cause (alcohol, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, etc.). Regular testing is critical since cirrhosis is the single highest risk factor for developing HCC.
• Chronic Hepatitis B (HBV) or Hepatitis C (HCV): These viral infections are major risk factors for HCC. Surveillance is recommended every 6 months for these high-risk populations to ensure early detection.
• Monitoring Post-Treatment: Patients who have undergone HCC treatment, such as surgery or ablation, should be monitored to check for disease recurrence. This helps to provide an early indicator of relapse, often before structural changes are visible on scans.
• Unexplained Liver Masses: When imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, MRI) identify nodules or lesions in the liver that need to be categorised as benign or malignant. Elevated PIVKA-II levels can significantly increase the suspicion that a mass is malignant.
• Vitamin K Deficiency: In rare cases, the test may be used to assess severe Vitamin K deficiency, as this also leads to increased DCP production. However, this is used mainly in the context of ruling out liver cancer in patients with severe malnutrition or malabsorption.

Understanding a DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test Report

DCP/PIVKA-II results are typically reported in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL) or milli-arbitrary units per litre (mAU/L), and interpretation requires correlation with imaging and other clinical factors. Reference ranges can vary between laboratories due to different testing methodologies.

Important Note: Elevated DCP/PIVKA-II levels are not exclusive to cancer and can occur in cases of severe Vitamin K deficiency or certain non-cancerous liver diseases. A specialist must always interpret test results, alongside patient history and imaging scans.

Preparation and Procedure for DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test

The DCP/PIVKA-II test is a non-invasive procedure requiring a standard blood draw.

1. How is the Test Done?

A phlebotomist will collect a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is processed to obtain serum or plasma, which is then analysed using an automated immunoassay system to quantify the DCP/PIVKA-II concentration.

2. Is Fasting Required?

Fasting is typically not needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.

3. Sample Collection Time

There is no specific time requirement for the test, as the protein levels are generally stable throughout the day.

4. Medications

Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants, which are Vitamin K antagonists) or Vitamin K supplements. These can directly impact the production of prothrombin and DCP, potentially affecting the interpretation of the results.

Booking DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test Online & Checking Reports

Apollo 24|7 offers a secure and straightforward process for scheduling this crucial diagnostic test.

A. How to Schedule the Test on Apollo 24|7

1. Visit the Apollo 24|7 platform and search for DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test.
2. Review the latest DCP-Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA-II Test price for your location and click 'Book Now'.
3. Select a convenient date and time for sample collection at a facility or home service.
4. Complete the secure online payment to confirm your booking.

B. How to Access Your Test Results Online

1. Log in to your Apollo 24|7 account using the website or the mobile app.
2. Go to the ‘Health Records’ or ‘My Reports’ section from the main menu.
3. Find and click on your completed DCP – Decarboxy Prothrombin (PIVKA-II) Test report.
4. You can open and download the detailed PDF version of your report.
5. Share the downloaded report immediately with your doctor or specialist so they can review and explain the results clearly.

Conclusion

The DCP–Decarboxy Prothrombin (PIVKA-II) test is an important modern tool used to check liver health without the need for surgery or other invasive methods. It is especially valuable for people suffering from chronic liver disease or liver cancer. This test measures a special biomarker that provides accurate information about how well the liver cells are functioning, particularly when some of them have become cancerous. It offers a clear advantage over many older or traditional liver tests.

The results of the DCP/PIVKA-II test are most meaningful when reviewed together with imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans, as well as other tumor markers like Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP). Combining these results helps doctors achieve a much more accurate diagnosis. The test plays a crucial role in the early detection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) or in identifying if the cancer has returned after treatment. Early and precise detection allows high-risk patients to receive timely medical care, which greatly improves survival chances and long-term outcomes. Because of this, the DCP/PIVKA-II test is an essential part of monitoring liver cancer or assessing how well a patient is responding to treatment.