ADAMTS13 Activity
Also known as: von Willebrand Factor-cleaving Protease
Use
Differentiating thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) from a number of clinically similar conditions
Special Instructions
Blood collection requires a blue-top sodium citrate tube and immediate inversion for anticoagulant mixing. Plasma must be transferred, frozen instantly, and maintained frozen for accurate results. Separate frozen specimens are needed if multiple tests are requested.
Limitations
This test has not been cleared or approved by the FDA. While severe deficiency of ADAMTS13 (<10% activity) is specific to TTP, levels over 10% do not rule out TTP. Other conditions like HUS or atypical HUS might show varying deficiency levels. The test should not be solely used for TTP diagnosis, as similar symptoms could be attributed to other conditions, often affected by specific medications, organ transplantation, or sepsis.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 53622-7
- 53622-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Blue-top (sodium citrate) tube
Collection Instructions
Collect blood in a blue-top tube containing 3.2% buffered sodium citrate. Mix immediately by gentle inversion six times. After centrifugation, transfer plasma using a plastic pipette to a frozen purple tube with screw cap.
Storage Instructions
Freeze immediately and maintain frozen until tested.
Causes for Rejection
Severe hemolysis; improper labeling; clotted specimen; specimen diluted with IV fluids; receipt of non-frozen sample; receipt of non-separated sample; receipt of EDTA plasma; receipt of serum; sample out of stability
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2 hours |
| Frozen | 14 days |