Protein C Functional

Protein C is a vitamin K-dependent blood protein that is important for regulating the clotting process. After it is activated, it acts with protein S to inactivate the clotting factors so that excessive clot formation will not occur. When protein C activity is low, the body can no longer effectively regulate the clotting process, which will increase the risk of dangerous conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), stroke, or recurrent pregnancy loss.

The Protein C Functional test may be recommended for individuals with unexplained or repeated blood clots, recurrent miscarriages, or a family history of clotting disorders (thrombophilia). It can also help the doctor determine whether a protein C deficiency is inherited or acquired later in life due to conditions such as liver disease, vitamin K deficiency, severe infections, or the use of blood-thinning medicines like warfarin. By checking protein C activity, this test gives important insights for diagnosing clotting problems and guiding management decisions.

Before the test, the doctor may ask to stop certain medications: heparin (1 day before) and oral anticoagulants (7 days before), as these can affect the results. But do not stop the blood thinners unless your treating doctor tells you to. A coagulation requisition form (Annexure - CR/05) must also be submitted for sample collection. While overnight fasting is preferred, it is not compulsory. To ensure accurate results, it is important to share the complete medical history, current medications, and the doctor’s prescription at the time of testing.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Do not self-medicate and always consult a doctor to understand the test results correctly. 

Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.