Fibrinopeptide a
Key points
- This is a blood test that measures the level of fibrinopeptide a, which is a substance released as part of the clotting process.
- Blood is drawn from a vein, usually on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand.
- For infants and children: The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and previous experiences.
- Measurement of fibrinopeptide a may help diagnose severe, abnormal clotting processes, such as disseminated intravascular clotting, that occur without generalized symptoms.
Alternative names
FPA
Definition
This is a blood test that measures the level of fibrinopeptide a, which is a substance released as part of the clotting process. An elevated level may indicate an abnormal clotting process, such as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
How the test is performed
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the band to fill with blood.
A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the tourniquet is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.
For an infant or young child, the area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. Cotton or a bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any continued bleeding.
The sample is then taken to the laboratory for examination.
How to prepare for the test
No special preparation is necessary.
For infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and previous experiences. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
- infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
- toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
- preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
- schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
- adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)
How the test will feel
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Why the test is performed
Measurement of fibrinopeptide a may help diagnose severe, abnormal clotting processes, such as disseminated intravascular clotting, that occur without generalized symptoms.
Certain types of leukemia are associated with DIC, and this test can help in the early detection of this severe complication.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.