Index:
* Alternative Names
* Definition
* Manner in which the examination is performed
* Preparation for the review
* What you feel during the examination
* Why is the consideration that
* Normal values
* Significance of abnormal results
* What are the risks
* Special Considerations
Alternative Names
A-Th3; AT III
Definition
It is a blood test that measures the amount of antithrombin III (AT III), a protein that helps control blood clotting.
Manner in which the examination is performed
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with a disinfectant (antiseptic). The doctor places a rubber band around the upper arm to apply pressure on the area and cause the vein to fill with blood.
Then the doctor inserts a needle gently into the vein and blood collected in an airtight jar or a tube affixed to the needle. The elastic band is removed from the arm.
Once you have collected the blood sample is withdrawn and covers the needle puncture site to stop any bleeding.
In infants or young children, you can use a pointed instrument called a lancet to puncture the skin and make it bleed. The blood is collected in a small glass tube called a pipette, in a slide or a strip. Finally, we can put a bandage on the area if there is any bleeding.
Preparation for the review
It is possible that the doctor will ask the person to suspend or reduce the dose of certain medications before the procedure, some of which can affect the outcome of the review. However, one should not stop taking any medication without first talking to your doctor.
What you feel during the test
When a needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or sting sensation. Subsequently, there may be some pulsating sensation.
Reasons for which the examination is performed Back to top
The doctor may order this test if there is blood clots in repetitive or anticoagulant drugs do not work.
Normal Values
The ranges of normal values may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of the specific results of its review.
Significance of abnormal results
Antithrombin III levels lower than normal may mean that you have an increased risk of clotting and abnormal results may not appear to be an adult.
Examples of disorders and conditions associated with increased blood clotting may include:
* Deep vein thrombosis
* Phlebitis (inflammation of a vein)
* Pulmonary embolism (blood clot that travels to the lung)
Antithrombin III levels lower than normal may be due to:
* Bone Marrow Transplant
* DIC (disseminated intravascular coagulation)
* Other coagulation disorders
* A hereditary condition that causes lower levels of the protein in blood clotting
* Liver
Nephrotic Syndrome *
Antithrombin III levels higher than normal may be due to:
* Use of anabolic steroids
What are the risks
* Excessive Bleeding
* Fainting or dizziness
* Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
* Infection (a slight risk any time that this break in the skin)
* Multiple punctures to locate veins
Special considerations
The use of contraceptive pills may cause a slight decrease in the levels of AT III.
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side to another, therefore, may be more difficult to obtain a blood sample from some people than others.
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