Factor VII Functional
Factor VII Functional
Factor VII functional test is done to measure the activity of clotting factor VII in a blood sample. Factor VII is one of the proteins in the blood that helps in blood coagulation or clotting. Thus, this test is recommended to identify if a person is suffering from factor VII deficiency (also called Alexander’s disease), a rare genetic bleeding disorder. It is of two types:
· Type 1: Where Factor VII is absent or found in low levels in the blood
· Type 2: Where Factor VII is present but it does not work properly
Symptoms of Alexander’s disease
Bleeding from mucous membranes (e.g. Inside the gastrointestinal tract)
Bleeding into muscles (e.g. Under the skin)
Bruising easily
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Nosebleeds that do not stop easily
Umbilical cord bleeding after birth
Mouth bleeds (e.g. from gums during dental treatment)
Who should get tested?
Factor VII functional test is most often used if you have
A tendency of abnormal bleeding
A family history of factor VII functional deficiency
Liver abnormalities
Preparation for the test
No special preparations are required to undergo the factor VII functional test. Before this test, you may temporarily need to stop taking certain medicines as advised by your healthcare provider.
Interpretation of results
The units of measurement for the results are often given as a percentage.
The normal range for factor VII is 50% to 200% of the laboratory control or reference value.
Deviations from normal levels indicate the following:
Decreased factor VII activity may indicate the following conditions:
· Factor VII 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
· Taking blood thinners
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the factor VII functional test?
During this test, a small amount of blood is taken from a vein in your arm using a needle, which is collected in a test tube or vial. This procedure takes no longer than five minutes.
What are the risks associated with the factor VII functional test?
This test involves negligible risk. During a blood test, one may experience minor pain or bruising at the site where the needle was inserted, but most symptoms will subside quickly.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for this test?
Factor VII deficiency test results are usually available within the same working day as the sample collection. However, this duration may vary depending on the diagnostic clinic.
I have been diagnosed with factor VII deficiency. Is it safe for me to take NSAIDs?
NSAIDs are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen. This class of drugs should not be used by individuals diagnosed with factor VII deficiency as these medications greatly increase the risk of bleeding.
Is there any precaution that young children with factor VII deficiency should take while getting vaccinations?
Immunizations in injection form should be given under the skin (subcutaneously) instead of into a muscle (intramuscularly). This is a precaution that should be taken while giving vaccinations to young children with factor VII deficiency so as to reduce the risk of painful bruised swelling (hematoma) from developing.
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