Euglobulin Lysis Time Test- Why am I having this test?
Euglobulin lysis time test is done to help determine how quickly a blood clot will break up and dissolve (lysis).
What is being tested?
The euglobulin lysis time test measures the amount of time that is required for an enzyme called plasmin to break down a protein that causes clots (fibrinogen) in a cell-free component of blood (plasma). A clotted sample of plasma is called euglobulin. The action of plasmin on fibrinogen is observed at intervals of time until the blood clot is dissolved. This interval of time is the euglobulin lysis time.
What kind of sample is taken?
A blood sample is required for this test. It is usually collected by inserting a needle into a blood vessel.
How do I prepare for this test?
Your health care provider may instruct you to avoid strenuous physical activity for one hour before the test.
How are the results reported?
Your test results will be reported as a value. Your health care provider will compare your results to normal ranges that were established after testing a large group of people (reference ranges). Reference ranges may vary among labs and hospitals. For this test, a common reference range is:
- Lysisin 1.5–4 hours.
What do the results mean?
A lysis time of less than one hour may indicate excessive danger of bleeding.
Other reasons for a shortened lysis time include:
- A condition in which blood clots form throughout the bloodstream (disseminated intravascular coagulation, or DIC).
- Certain surgeries.
- Certain medications.
An increased lysis time may be associated with:
- Type 2 diabetes in women.
- Dialysis.
Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean.
Questions to ask your health care provider
Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test:
- When will my results be ready?
- How will I get my results?
- What other tests do I need?
- What are my treatment options?
- What are my next steps?
Summary
- Euglobulin lysis time test is done to help determine how quickly a blood clot will break up and dissolve (lysis).
- Your health care provider may instruct you to avoid strenuous physical activity for one hour before the test.
- A lysis time of less than one hour may indicate excessive danger of bleeding.
- Talk with your health care provider about what your results may mean.
