Des-Gamma-Carboxy Prothrombin, Serum
Use
Des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin (DCP), also known as the protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonist II (PIVKA-II), is an abnormal form of the coagulation protein, prothrombin. It serves as a biomarker used primarily for assessing the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic liver disease. It's also useful in monitoring patients post-therapy if elevated DCP levels were present prior to treatment. DCP is considered a complementary biomarker to alpha fetoprotein (AFP) and AFP-L3% for HCC risk assessment and is correlated with tumor size and metastatic HCC.
Special Instructions
For diagnostic use, this test is most cost-effective for at-risk patients with normal levels of total and L3 alpha fetoprotein in serum. Ordering requires completion of the Oncology Test Request (T729) or Gastroenterology and Hepatology Test Request (T728) forms, if not ordered electronically.
Limitations
DCP can be elevated due to conditions other than HCC, such as obstructive jaundice or drug-induced changes in vitamin K status. Around 25% to 50% of HCC patients may show normal DCP levels, indicating a normal DCP result does not exclude HCC presence. Antibody interference (HAMA) is rare but possible and would require correlation with clinical information and alternative testing for accurate interpretation.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Other)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 34444-0
- 34444-0
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
Serum gel or Red top tube, plastic vial for submission
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Storage Instructions
Frozen: 90 days preferred; Ambient: 72 hours; Refrigerated: 7 days
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |