The annual incidence of venous thromboembolism (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) is approximately 117 per 100,000 persons or about 1 per 1,000 person-years. ACMG selected two mutations associated with increased risk for occurrence/recurrence of venous thrombosis—the factor V Leiden and the prothrombin 20210G>A (factor II) 1
Prothrombin and Factor V Leiden are genetic mutations associated with an increased risk of blood clot formation. Prothrombin refers to a protein involved in the blood clotting process, while Factor V Leiden refers to a specific mutation in the Factor V gene, which affects the activity of a clotting protein called Factor V.
Individuals with these mutations have an altered blood clotting mechanism, making them more susceptible to developing abnormal blood clots, a condition known as thrombophilia. This increased clotting tendency can lead to various health issues, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and other clot-related complications. Prothrombin and Factor V Leiden mutations can be associated with an increased risk of miscarriages and may be considered as part of the evaluation for recurrent pregnancy loss.
When should you get tested?
- Individuals who have a personal or family history of blood clots, particularly deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).
- Individuals or couples who have experienced multiple unexplained pregnancy losses.
- Testing may be advised before initiating hormonal contraception (such as birth control pills) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in women.
- Testing may be considered before major surgeries or periods of prolonged immobilization.
- If there is a known family history of Prothrombin or Factor V Leiden mutations
Test specifications
| Technique | Variant types | TAT | Sample requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanger sequencing | Mutation | 3 - 4 weeks | 2 ml EDTA Blood / 2 ug DNA |
References
- Spector, Elaine B., et al. "Technical standards and guidelines: venous thromboembolism (Factor V Leiden and prothrombin 20210G> A testing): a disease-specific supplement to the standards and guidelines for clinical genetics laboratories." Genetics in Medicine 7.6 (2005): 444-453.