Factor II Functional
Factor II Functional
Factor II functional test is used to measure the activity of factor II, also referred to as prothrombin. Prothrombin is a protein that plays a vital role in the clotting process of blood. In the event of an injury and subsequent bleeding, the body initiates a process called hemostasis, which aims to form a plug at the site of injury to halt the bleeding. Platelets, a type of blood cell, adhere to and aggregate at the injury site, triggering a series of reactions known as the coagulation cascade. This cascade activates coagulation factors in a specific sequence, ultimately resulting in the formation of a blood clot. Once the affected area has fully healed, the blood clot naturally dissolves.
This test is used to identify the source of excessive bleeding (reduced blood clotting). This reduced clotting could be attributed to a deficiency in factor II.
Symptoms of factor II deficiency
Nosebleeds
Easy bruising
Bleeding under the skin
Prolonged bleeding following surgery
Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
Umbilical cord bleeding after birth
Who should get tested?
Factor II functional test is recommended if you have
A tendency of abnormal bleeding
A family history of factor II deficiency
Liver abnormalities
Preparation for the test
There is no need for any specific preparations prior to undergoing the factor II functional test. Your healthcare provider may recommend temporarily discontinuing certain medications before the test.
Interpretation of results
The units of measurement for the results are often given as a percentage.
The normal range is 50% to 200% of the laboratory control or reference value.
Normal value ranges can differ slightly between laboratories as a result of variations in measurements or samples being tested.
Deviation from normal levels indicate the following:
Decreased factor II activity may indicate the following conditions:
· Factor II deficiency (a bleeding disorder that impairs the blood clotting ability)
· Disseminated intravascular coagulation (characterized by excessive activity of blood clotting proteins)
· Liver disease (such as cirrhosis)
Vitamin K deficiency
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the factor II functional test?
During this blood test, a healthcare provider will take a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm by using a needle, which is collected in a test tube or vial. This procedure takes no longer than five minutes.
What are the risks involved in the factor II functional test?
This test involves negligible risk. During a blood test, one may experience minor pain or bruising where the needle was inserted, but most symptoms will subside quickly.
How long should I wait for the factor II functional test results?
The factor II functional test result is usually available within 24 hours after the sample collection. However, this duration may vary depending on the diagnostic clinic.
What factors might affect my factor II functional test results?
If you are currently using blood-thinners such as warfarin, it might impact the accuracy of the test results.
How do you manage bleeding caused by factor II deficiency?
Bleeding can be managed by receiving intravenous (IV) infusions of plasma or concentrates of clotting factor II. In the case of vitamin K deficiency, this nutrient can be administered orally, via subcutaneous injections, or intravenously through a vein.