Recommended Tests for Evaluating Clotting Disorders
Male, 30 years old, height 5’6”, weight 145 pounds, not on any medications, non-smoker. After experiencing a pulmonary embolism following an extended flight, my hematologist suggested conducting tests to identify potential causes. I think he intended to include genetic assessments in the process. Since relocating to a new state, finding another hematologist has a long wait time, and I’m willing to cover the cost of tests that might help, particularly as my job requires frequent air travel. I would greatly appreciate guidance on which tests might be beneficial for me. Here’s a list of tests I've discovered thus far. Are there additional ones I should consider? - Prothrombin Time (PT) and International Normalized Ratio (INR) - Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) - Fibrinogen Level - Complete Blood Count (CBC) - Factor V Leiden mutation test - Prothrombin Gene Mutation test If there’s a more suitable subreddit for this inquiry, I would appreciate your recommendations. Thank you for your help!
Answers (1)
6/22/2025, 7:01:06 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s great that you're proactive about understanding and managing your health, especially after a significant event like a pulmonary embolism. Here’s a summary of important testing recommendations for evaluating clotting disorders, particularly given your situation of frequent air travel.
Key Tests for Evaluating Clotting Disorders
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Coagulation Tests:
- Prothrombin Time (PT) and INR: Measures how long it takes your blood to clot.
- Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT): Assesses the blood's clotting ability through a different pathway.
- Fibrinogen Level: Evaluates the level of fibrinogen, a protein involved in blood clotting.
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Genetic Testing:
- Factor V Leiden Mutation Test: Identifies if you have a genetic mutation that increases your risk of developing abnormal blood clots.
- Prothrombin Gene Mutation Test: Detects another genetic variant associated with increased risks of clotting.
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Complete Blood Count (CBC): Although it provides general information about your blood cells, it will help rule out other conditions.
Additional Tests You Might Consider
Given your history of pulmonary embolism and the potential for frequent air travel, here are a few additional tests that might be considered, depending on your clinical situation:
- Antiphospholipid Antibodies: To check for an autoimmune condition that can increase clotting risk.
- Protein C and Protein S Levels: These proteins help regulate blood clotting; deficiencies can lead to increased clotting risk.
- Antithrombin III Level: Evaluates another important protein that helps prevent blood from clotting too much.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Confirm with Your Hematologist: Before proceeding, it's best to discuss these additional tests with your hematologist, if possible. They can help determine which tests are most relevant in your case, especially considering your history.
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Get the Suggested Tests Scheduled: Aim to have the coagulation tests and genetic testing conducted, as these will provide key insights into your clotting risk.
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Consider a Second Opinion: If wait times for hematology consultations are long, consider seeking a second opinion from another healthcare provider or a specialist in a nearby city.
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Maintain Awareness of Symptoms: Monitor for any symptoms related to blood clots, such as swelling, pain in the legs, or shortness of breath, and seek immediate care if these occur.
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Stay Hydrated and Move Regularly During Travel: While you are working on these tests, ensure to hydrate well and move around during flights to help reduce your risk of another embolism.
You’re taking a responsible approach to your health, and I wish you the best in your journey towards understanding and managing your condition. If you have further questions about these tests or how to manage your risk, feel free to ask.
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