Functional Protein C Activity

For Specimen Integrity during Extreme Weather see the “Lockbox Usage in Extreme Weather” document at the top of this page.

If unable to process and properly store specimens within 4 hours of collection then call CompuNet transportation for a STAT pick-up at (937) 297-8262 option 1.

This test needs a completed Anticoagulant Drug List submitted with the specimen. For a copy of the 2 page form click here
 

FUNPRC

75226

1 plastic (2.7mL) completely filled 3.2% Sodium Citrate (light blue top) tube

2 Frozen Capped aliquots of Sodium Citrate plasma (Polypropylene tubes recommended)

Use standard venipuncture and disposal techniques.

Collect the required quantity of Sodium Citrate (light blue top) tubes.

Call Transportation for a STAT pick-up at 937-297-8262. If unable to obtain STAT pick-up then proceed to the Sodium Citrate (light blue top) tubes instructions below.

Sodium Citrate (light blue top) tube(s): Process immediately (stable only 4 hours), following instructions below:
Note: We recommend aliquot tubes to be made of polypropylene plastic as this material is safe to freeze at ≤-70 degrees C.
1. Centrifuge capped Sodium Citrate (light blue top) tubes at 3000 rpm for 10 minutes, or at speed and time required to consistently produce Platelet Poor Plasma (≤5/kmm3).
2. Carefully remove the plasma from all Sodium Citrate (light blue top) tubes; avoid disturbing the WBC/buffy coat, and combine all plasma into a 15mL plastic conical centrifuge tube. Note: If the plasma shows any hemolysis, it must be recollected.
3. Centrifuge the plasma in the 15mL plastic conical centrifuge tube for a second time as in step 1.
4. In one smooth motion, carefully and quickly pour the centrifuged plasma into a second 15mL plastic conical centrifuge tube. A small amount of plasma along with a red cell button should remain on the bottom of the original conical tube if the pour was executed correctly. Note: This quick-pour method prevents platelet transfer and contamination.
5. Perform a platelet count on the well mixed double-spun pooled plasma from the second 15 mL plastic conical centrifuge tube. Platelet count must be ≤ 5/kmm3. Notes: If the platelet count is greater than 5/kmm3 then repeat the process starting at step 3. If unable to perform a platelet count then indicate on requisition.
6. Aliquot at least 1mL of plasma into each aliquot tubes labeled “plasma.” Refer to the Minimum Volume section above for the number of aliquots required per test.
7. Finally, place all aliquots into a ≤-20°C freezer within 4 hours. Note: Aliquots must remain frozen until they are picked up by the CompuNet courier. Call CompuNet transportation department if frozen specimen boxes are needed.

Whole blood Sodium Citrate (light blue top) tube(s)
       OR
Frozen - Capped aliquots of Sodium Citrate plasma (Polypropylene tubes recommended)

Room Temperature: Whole blood Sodium Citrate (light blue top) tube(s)
Refrigerated: Unacceptable for Sodium Citrate (light blue top) tubes whole blood or capped plasma aliquots
Frozen: Capped aliquots of Sodium Citrate plasma

Room Temperature: Whole blood Sodium Citrate (light blue top) tube(s) < 4 hours
Refrigerated: Unacceptable for Sodium Citrate (light blue top) tubes whole blood or capped plasma aliquots
Frozen: Capped aliquots of Sodium Citrate plasma (Polypropylene tubes recommended) 3 months at ≤-70degreesC

Rejected for hemolysis, clotted, improper fill, incorrect specimen type, thawed frozen aliquots, refrigerated plasma or blood, expired test tubes, >4 hours old if not processed into separated frozen plasma vials.

Wednesday
SCOAG

1 - 3 days

This assay detects a deficiency in Protein C that maybe otherwise normal when tested using Antigenic and Chromogenic methods.

 Protein C deficiencies exist as both acquired and inherited disorders. Acquired Protein C deficiencies are found in hepatic disorders, oral anticoagulant therapies and DIC. Congenital Protein C deficiencies are characterized by recurrent venous thrombosis and exist in different types:

• o Type I deficiency shows decrease of both functional and antigenic levels of Protein C.
• o Type II deficiency shows decrease in Functional Protein C level, but normal with chromogenic levels of Protein C.