Thrombin−Antithrombin Complex
Use
The Thrombin−Antithrombin Complex test is used to assess thrombin formation and antithrombin consumption. Elevated levels of TAT may be associated with various clinical conditions, such as advancing age, pregnancy, septicemia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, multiple trauma, acute pancreatitis, acute and chronic leukemia, preeclampsia, acute and chronic liver disease, and other predisposing causes of thrombosis. Increased TAT levels are also reported during heparin and fibrinolytic therapy, and they are markedly reduced after the first 24 hours of receiving oral anticoagulants. The test provides valuable information in diagnosing thrombotic events and tracking their resolution.
Special Instructions
Blood samples must be collected in blue-top tubes containing 3.2% buffered sodium citrate, ensuring a proper blood to anticoagulant ratio. Samples should be mixed immediately by gentle inversion at least six times to ensure adequate mixing. Noncitrate tubes should be collected before citrate tubes.
Limitations
Results may be invalidated by traumatic venipuncture, prolonged stasis, or inadequate centrifuging. Incorrect mixing of the sample and sodium citrate may lead to falsely elevated levels. Elevated TAT levels may also result from inflammation and microvascular thrombosis in surgical patients or patients in acute distress. Testing conditions such as a difficult draw can spuriously increase test results.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Sandwich Technique)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 14182-0
- 14182-0
Result Turnaround Time
3-9 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Blue-top (sodium citrate) tube
Collection Instructions
Blood should be collected in a blue-top tube containing 3.2% buffered sodium citrate. Evacuated collection tubes must be filled to completion to ensure a proper blood to anticoagulant ratio. The sample should be mixed immediately by gentle inversion at least six times. Centrifuge and carefully remove the plasma using a plastic transfer pipette without disturbing the cells. Transfer to a Labcorp PP transpak frozen purple tube and freeze immediately. Submit separate frozen specimens for multiple tests.
Patient Preparation
Do not draw from an arm with a heparin lock or heparinized catheter.
Storage Instructions
Freeze; five freeze/thaw cycles are acceptable. Stable at room temperature or refrigerated for four hours.