Plasminogen Activity, Plasma
Use
This test is useful for evaluating patients with ligneous conjunctivitis, a condition strongly associated with homozygous plasminogen deficiency. It is also used to evaluate fibrinolysis when combined with other components of the fibrinolytic system such as fibrinogen, tissue plasminogen-activator-inhibitor, and d-dimers. The plasminogen activity assay can identify both quantitative and functional plasminogen deficiencies, which are relevant in assessing the risk of conditions like thrombolytic therapy, disseminated intravascular coagulation, or liver disease that may lead to acquired plasminogen deficiency.
Special Instructions
Proper preparation of the specimen is critical for accuracy. Each coagulation assay requested requires its own vial. Instructions include handling plasma to prevent platelet contamination and proper freezing procedures.
Limitations
Plasminogen results are affected by elevated levels of fibrinogen, heparin concentration exceeding 4 U/mL, fibrin degradation products over 30 mg/dL, hemoglobin levels above 200 mg/dL, bilirubin concentrations greater than 20 mg/dL, and triglycerides exceeding 1000 mg/dL. These factors can interfere with the accuracy of results, leading to potential diagnostic confusion.
New York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 28660-9
- 28660-9
Result Turnaround Time
3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Light-blue top (3.2% sodium citrate), Plastic vial (polypropylene preferred)
Collection Instructions
For complete instructions, see Coagulation Guidelines for Specimen Handling and Processing. Centrifuge, transfer all plasma into a plastic vial, and centrifuge plasma again. Aliquot plasma into separate plastic vial leaving 0.25 mL in the bottom of centrifuged vial. Freeze plasma immediately (no longer than 4 hours after collection) at -20 degrees C or, ideally at -40 degrees C or below.
Patient Preparation
If priority specimen, mark request form and provide reason for call-back.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia, Gross icterus
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Frozen | 14 days |