Protein C and Protein S Tests

Explanation

Protein C and protein S tests measure the amount or function of two blood proteins that help prevent excessive clotting.

What do protein C and protein S do?

Protein C and protein S are separate proteins that work together to limit blood clotting. Tests for them are often ordered together when an increased tendency to form blood clots is being investigated.

What is the difference between function and amount tests?

A function, or activity, test checks how well a protein works. An amount test checks how much of it is present. Comparing these results can help distinguish too little protein from protein that is present but does not work normally.

Does a low result mean an inherited deficiency?

Not necessarily. Low protein C or protein S can be inherited, but it can also be acquired because of another condition or a temporary situation. The result must be interpreted with medical history and other clotting tests.

Why do timing and medicines matter?

A recent blood clot and some blood-thinning medicines can affect the accuracy of testing. The clinical team chooses the timing and gives medicine instructions. A person should not change or stop a prescribed medicine on the basis of general test information.

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