ANTITHROMBIN III

The antithrombin III (AT III) test measures the level of antithrombin, a protein that inhibits blood clotting by neutralizing the activity of thrombin and other clotting factors. Low levels of antithrombin can lead to an increased risk of developing blood clots, a condition known as antithrombin deficiency. This test is used to diagnose inherited or acquired antithrombin deficiency, which can result from conditions such as liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Identifying antithrombin deficiency is crucial for assessing the risk of thrombotic events and guiding anticoagulant therapy to prevent clot formation.