PROTEIN C ANTIGEN

Protein C Antigen: Price, Purpose, Range & Reports

Test Overview

The Protein C Antigen test is a specialised diagnostic tool used to measure the quantity of Protein C, a vital, naturally occurring anticoagulant (clot inhibitor) in your blood. Protein C is a vitamin K-dependent protein synthesised in the liver that plays a critical role in regulating the clotting cascade by inactivating two major clotting factors (Va and VIIIa). A deficiency in the quantity of this protein can lead to a state of thrombophilia, a significantly increased risk of forming abnormal and potentially dangerous blood clots.

This test is essential for diagnosing inherited or acquired Protein C deficiency, which can manifest as recurrent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or Pulmonary Embolism (PE). If you are searching for a reliable Protein C Antigen price or a convenient thrombophilia test near me, Apollo 24|7 provides accredited laboratory services, ensuring accurate results crucial for managing complex clotting disorders.

What is the Protein C Antigen Test?

The Protein C Antigen Test is a blood test that specifically measures the concentration (or amount) of Protein C present in the plasma. It is distinct from the Protein C Activity Test, which measures how well the protein is functioning. In clinical practice, both tests are often used together to diagnose different types of deficiency:

• Type I Deficiency (Quantitative): The Antigen test shows low levels of Protein C, meaning the body is not making enough of the protein.
• Type II Deficiency (Qualitative): The Antigen test shows normal levels of Protein C, but the Activity test shows low function, meaning the protein is present but defective.

Protein C deficiency can be:

• Congenital (Inherited): Passed down through families, leading to lifelong increased risk of thrombosis.
• Acquired: Caused by underlying conditions like severe liver disease (as the liver synthesises Protein C), Vitamin K deficiency, or Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC).

This assay is highly sensitive and typically performed using an automated immunoassay technique to precisely quantify the protein concentration.

What is the Protein C Antigen Price?

The Protein C Antigen price is reflective of the specialised, complex nature of the coagulation assay and the advanced laboratory equipment required for accurate quantification. The final cost of your test is influenced by several elements:

• Specialised Assay: The test uses advanced immunological techniques to specifically measure the protein, requiring dedicated reagents and precise instrumentation.
• Location: Prices may differ slightly between regions due to local operating costs, logistics, and the availability of specialised coagulation labs.
• Clinical Significance: The value reflects the test's importance in diagnosing a condition that requires long-term management (thrombophilia).
• Lab Accreditation: Tests conducted at NABL-accredited labs, such as those operated by Apollo, ensure high quality and reliability, which is critical for life-altering diagnoses.

If you're looking to find the most accurate and current Protein C Antigen price near me, it is recommended to check the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile application for real-time rates and package details based on your location.

What is the Purpose of the Protein C Antigen Test?

The primary purpose of the Protein C Antigen Test is to diagnose Protein C deficiency, which is a significant inherited risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Doctors recommend the Protein C Antigen Test for the following key objectives:

• Investigating Unexplained Clotting Events: To identify the underlying cause of recurrent or unusually early-onset Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or Pulmonary Embolism (PE).
• Screening High-Risk Individuals: To test close relatives (siblings, parents) of a patient who has already been diagnosed with an inherited Protein C deficiency.
• Diagnosing Type I Deficiency: To confirm a quantitative deficiency where the body is producing insufficient amounts of the protein.
• Evaluating Acquired Deficiency: To assess the extent of protein loss in patients with conditions like severe liver failure, nephrotic syndrome, or acute DIC.
• Investigating Warfarin Complications: In rare cases, to investigate Coumarin-Induced Skin Necrosis, a complication that can occur shortly after starting Warfarin therapy in patients with severe deficiency.

Who Should Get a Protein C Antigen Test Done?

The test is typically ordered by a physician (often a haematologist) when clinical suspicion of thrombophilia is high.

Doctors may recommend this test if you fall into one of these groups:

• Individuals with a History of VTE: Especially those who experienced a DVT or PE before the age of 50, or those with recurrent clotting episodes.
• Patients with Unprovoked Thrombosis: Clotting events that occurred without a clear trigger (such as surgery, trauma, or prolonged immobilisation).
• Patients with Strong Family History: Individuals who have multiple family members who have suffered from clotting disorders, particularly before the age of 45.
• Patients with Atypical Thrombosis: Clots occurring in unusual locations, such as the veins of the liver (portal vein) or brain (cerebral veins).

Components of the Protein C Antigen Test

This diagnostic test is focused on quantifying a single, specific protein crucial for the coagulation system.

The test is performed for:

• Protein C Antigen: Measures the total amount of Protein C protein present in the plasma, reported as a percentage of the normal reference pooled plasma.

Understanding a Protein C Antigen Test Report

The Protein C Antigen test is quantitative, measuring the protein concentration typically in terms of a percentage (%) of normal activity or in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

While reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories, a commonly accepted range is:

Important Note on Interpretation (Medication Interference):

The level of Protein C Antigen can be artificially lowered by anticoagulant medications, particularly Warfarin (Coumadin), because Warfarin inhibits the body’s synthesis of functional Protein C.

• For Accurate Diagnosis: The test should ideally be performed before a patient starts Warfarin treatment.
• Testing While on Warfarin: If a patient is already taking Warfarin, the physician may require them to temporarily switch to a non-Vitamin K antagonist anticoagulant (like Heparin) for a washout period before the test, or they may order a genetic test instead.
• Your healthcare provider will interpret your results in conjunction with your clinical history, other clotting factor tests, and medication use to determine if a true deficiency exists.

Preparation and Procedure for Protein C Antigen Test

This test requires specific attention to medication use, which can drastically impact the results.

1. How is the Test Done?

The Protein C Antigen test is performed using a standard venous blood draw. A healthcare professional collects the sample from a vein, typically in the arm, using a sterile needle and syringe.

• The blood is then placed into a specialised collection tube that contains sodium citrate, an anticoagulant. Sodium citrate helps prevent the blood from clotting prematurely and preserves the integrity of clotting factors like Protein C during transport and analysis. This step is essential for ensuring accurate test results.
• Once collected, the sample is sent to a laboratory where Protein C levels are measured using immunoassay techniques. 

2. Is Fasting Required for This Test?

No, fasting is generally not required for the Protein C Antigen Test. Eating or drinking does not significantly interfere with the protein concentration in the blood.

3. What Time of the Day Should I Undergo the Test?

You can undergo this test at any time of the day. The critical factor is the timing relative to any anticoagulant medication you may be taking, as advised by your doctor.

4. How Frequently Should I Undergo the Test?

This is typically a one-time diagnostic test to establish if a congenital deficiency exists. It is usually not repeated unless clinically necessary to assess acquired deficiency (e.g., following a change in liver function) or to reconfirm a previous result.

Booking Protein C Antigen Test Online & Checking Reports

Apollo 24|7 ensures a seamless process, allowing you to easily schedule this specialised test and securely access your results.

A. How to Schedule the Test Online

• Visit the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile application and search for the Protein C Antigen Test.
• Confirm the latest panel price for your city and click the 'Book Now' button.
• Select your preferred date and a convenient time slot for home collection.
• Complete the secure online payment. Confirmation details and preparation reminders (especially concerning medication) will be sent instantly.

B. How Do I Access My Test Results Online?

• Log in to your Apollo 24|7 account using your registered phone number or email.
• Navigate to the 'Health Records' or 'My Reports' section on your dashboard.
• Click on the completed test name to view the detailed report immediately.
• You can easily view the report online or download it in PDF format to share securely with your treating physician or haematologist.

Conclusion

The Protein C Antigen test is a key diagnostic tool used to identify deficiencies that may increase your risk of developing harmful blood clots (a condition known as thrombophilia). By measuring the amount of Protein C, a natural anticoagulant, this test helps doctors determine whether the deficiency is inherited or acquired, guiding decisions about long-term treatment and, when needed, genetic counselling. Testing through an accredited lab ensures accurate results, giving you and your healthcare provider the clarity needed to manage your health with confidence and care.