What does a Heparin Assay measure?

A Heparin Assay specifically measures the levels of unfractionated heparin in the blood. Unfractionated heparin is a type of anticoagulant used to prevent and treat thromboembolic disorders. The assay is critical in monitoring patients who are receiving heparin therapy to ensure that they maintain the correct therapeutic range, thereby preventing complications related to either inadequate anticoagulation or excessive anticoagulation.

In clinical practice, the results from a Heparin Assay can guide dosage adjustments and help ensure patient safety during treatment. This measurement is crucial for patients who might have variations in how they metabolize heparin or those who have other conditions that might affect its efficacy and safety.

Other options do not directly pertain to the specific measurement of heparin levels. For example, while low molecular weight heparin levels are significant in various clinical settings, they are measured with different assays and not with a standard Heparin Assay aimed at unfractionated heparin. Platelet aggregation efficiency and clotting factor deficiencies relate to different aspects of hemostasis and coagulation and do not measure heparin concentration directly. Therefore, the Heparin Assay's focus on unfractionated heparin levels