Thrombin Mixing Study
Also known as: Thrombin Clotting Time (TCT)
Use
Help to determine the presence of an inhibitor.
Special Instructions
Avoid warfarin therapy for two weeks and heparin therapy for two days before the test. Do not draw from an arm with a heparin lock or heparinized catheter. Usage of specific collection techniques and tube order must be followed as indicated for accurate results.
Limitations
Several factors can extend the thrombin time, including certain drugs like heparin, argatroban, and hirudin. The test may require additional steps such as a fibrinogen activity assay and antigen immunoassay to confirm a deficiency. Potential pre-analytic errors include gross hemolysis, improper labeling, and thawed specimens during transit. It is important for samples to be handled as specified to avoid rejection. Citrated plasma collection requires double centrifugation and specific freezing procedures to maintain sample integrity.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3243-3
- 3243-3
Result Turnaround Time
2-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
1.0 mL
Container
Blue-top (sodium citrate) tube
Collection Instructions
Citrate plasma samples must be collected by double centrifugation. Blood collection should be in a tube with 3.2% sodium citrate, mixed by gentle inversion 6 times, then processed as outlined, using specific transfer and storage tubes. A discard tube is required if using butterfly collection devices.
Patient Preparation
Avoid warfarin for two weeks and heparin for two days. Avoid drawing from an arm with a heparin lock or catheter.
Storage Instructions
Freeze.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis; clotted specimen; frozen specimen thawed in transit; improper labeling