Molecular screening for HPA-1a/b polymorphism of the glycoprotein IIIa gene (GPIIIa HPA-1a/HPA-1b) is performed to assess the risk of thrombosis in asymptomatic patients with a severe familial history or in patients who have already had a thrombotic episode.
Glycoprotein IIIa (GPIIIa or CD61 or integrin beta-3) together with glycoprotein IIb (GpIIb or CD41) form a receptor on the surface of the platelets to which fibrinogen and von Willebrand factor bind and participate in platelet activation. Glycoprotein IIIa is encoded by the ITGB3 gene located on chromosome 17. The existence of HPA-1b polymorphism has been associated with cases of myocardial infarction at relatively young ages (< 55 years) and with an increased risk of coronary artery thrombosis after cardiac surgery using stents. The b allele in combination with the 4G allele of the PAI-1 gene, increases the chance of myocardial infarction. Heterozygotes for the b allele appear to be resistant to the action of antithrombotic drugs e.g. in aspirin.
Thrombophilia is an acquired or congenital disorder associated with thrombosis. The clinical appearance of an underlying thrombophilia mainly involves venous thromboembolism, which is manifested as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or superficial vein thrombosis. Other events associated with thrombophilia include recurrent miscarriages (pregnancy loss) and complications of pregnancy such as severe preeclampsia, placental abruption, and fetal intrauterine death. The demographic and environmental characteristics that contribute to the risk of venous thromboembolism in people predisposed to thrombophilia include old age, gender (more commonly in men), obesity, surgery, trauma, hospitalization for other diseases, malignant neoplasms, prolonged immobility (such as long plane trips), use of certain medications (such as contraceptives, estrogens, tamoxifen, and raloxifene and certain drugs used for the treatment of infertility).
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
