Fibrinogen

This test measures the level of fibrinogen in your blood. Fibrinogen is an essential protein involved in blood clotting.

This test is done for various reasons, including:

• Assess Coagulation Status: The fibrinogen plasma test is performed to evaluate the coagulation status of an individual, providing valuable information about their blood clotting ability.
• Diagnose Blood Clotting Disorders: It aids in the diagnosis of various blood clotting disorders, including fibrinogen deficiency, dysfibrinogenemia, and afibrinogenemia, which can lead to excessive bleeding or abnormal clot formation.
• Monitor Treatment: The test is used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for coagulation disorders, such as fibrinogen replacement therapy or anticoagulant medications.
• Assess Risk of Thrombosis: Elevated levels of fibrinogen may indicate an increased risk of thrombosis (blood clot formation), making the test useful in assessing an individual's risk for conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).

• Evaluate Liver Function: Fibrinogen is primarily synthesized in the liver; therefore, the fibrinogen plasma test can also serve as a marker of liver function, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of liver diseases.

This test may be recommended if you:

• Experience unexplained or excessive bleeding or bruising
• Have a family history of bleeding disorders
• Have liver disease or are at risk of liver dysfunction
• Are undergoing treatment that affects blood clotting
• Are being evaluated for a suspected clotting disorder

In a healthy individual, the normal range for fibrinogen levels is typically 200 to 400 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Abnormal results may suggest an underlying condition such as liver disease, a bleeding disorder, or an increased risk of blood clot formation. Your doctor will interpret the results based on your medical history and perform further tests if necessary.

During the test:

• A small sample of your blood will be drawn using a needle
• The sample will be processed in a laboratory to measure fibrinogen levels
• The process is quick and relatively painless, with minimal discomfort

To prepare for the test:

• Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking
• Follow any fasting or dietary instructions provided by your doctor

• Prothrombin Time (PT) and Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) tests to assess overall blood clotting function
• Liver function tests to evaluate liver health and function
• Platelet count test to assess platelet levels and function

• Fibrinogen Activity test
• Fibrinogen Assay

Hypofibrinogenemia is a condition characterised by abnormally low levels of fibrinogen in the blood. It can lead to impaired blood clotting, resulting in excessive bleeding. This test helps diagnose and monitor this condition, enabling appropriate treatment and management.