Vitamin K-dependent clotting factors (serum/plasma mass concentration)
This test measures the levels of certain blood proteins involved in normal blood clotting, which rely on vitamin K for proper function.
["Understanding your blood clotting protein levels helps assess how well your blood can clot normally."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30197-8
- Short code
- VLCFA C26:0 SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- VLCFA C26:0 SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test to evaluate blood clotting function, diagnose bleeding disorders, or check for vitamin K deficiency. It can also help monitor conditions like liver disease or certain medications that affect clotting.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if instructed by your healthcare provider. Avoid aspirin or certain blood thinners for a specified period if directed.
How the Test Is Performed
A blood sample is taken from a vein, typically in your arm, and sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures the mass concentration of vitamin K-dependent factors (e.g., factors II, VII, IX, X) in your serum or plasma.
What the Results Mean
Abnormally low levels may suggest bleeding disorders, vitamin K deficiency, or liver problems. Abnormally high levels are less common but could indicate conditions like liver disease or certain genetic disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Vitamin K Factors
Frequently asked questions
What are the normal reference ranges for these tests?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you with the final report.
Follow your doctor’s instructions—some tests require fasting, while others do not. Avoid aspirin or blood-thinning medications unless advised otherwise.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy