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Semin Thromb Hemost 2005; 31(1): 33-38
DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-863803
Copyright © 2005 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Genetic Testing for Thrombophilia Mutations

Mark S. Hertzberg1
  • 1Associate Professor, Department of Haematology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
11 February 2005 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Venous thrombosis is a multicausal disease due to the interaction of genetic and environmental risk factors. Some of the recently discovered genetic risk factors, such as factor V Leiden and prothrombin G20210A mutations, are quite common in the population. Accordingly, laboratory investigation of thrombophilic disorders has expanded to incorporate molecular assays, which unlike functional assays, are unequivocal with no borderline values. When testing for these mutations, specific issues of patient management need to be addressed, such as the duration of anticoagulant therapy, risk stratification for primary or secondary prophylaxis, and family studies. Criteria used to select specific DNA methodologies will center on the issues of cost, automation, speed, reliability, and simplicity. A variety of molecular methods fulfill many but not all of these criteria, whereas the new, semiautomated methodologies of real-time polymerase chain reaction and DNA microarrays offer the potential for widespread application and utility in the future.

KEYWORDS

Thrombophilia - DNA - genetic testing - PCR

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Mark Hertzberg M.D. Ph.D. 

Department of Haematology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead

New South Wales 2145, Australia

Email: markh@westgate.wh.usyd.edu.au