Fibrinogen (Factor I) Activity Test

The Fibrinogen activity test is used for measuring the level of fibrinogen present in the blood. It is a type of blood plasma protein that gets developed in the liver. It is also known as “Factor I assay”. When you get injured, blood starts flowing out and a clot is formed at the injured place. If enough fibrinogen is not present, then fprmation of clot is difficult. That will lead to excessive bleeding. For normal blood clotting, fibrinogen is one of the most important things. The test is suggested for only those persons who have the symptoms of excessive bleeding from gums, frequent nosebleeds, blood in stool, bleeding in the head etc.

There is no specific prepration for the test. You can follow your daily routine of eating and drinking. It is advisable that you should wear a short-sleeve/sleeveless shirt. Before the test, the doctor may advise you to take certain medications. Take the medications as directed by the doctor or health specialist. If you are taking any blood thinner, then it is vital to inform the doctor/healthcare person prior about it.

As mentioned above, for knowing the level of fibrinogen in blood the test is directed by the doctor. After getting the reports of the test, following results can be obtained. If the level of fibrinogen is between 1.5-3.0 gram/liter, then it is normal. If the level is in-between 0.2-0.8 gram/liter, then it is Hypofibrinogenemia which causes high bleeding. In the case of total absence of fibrinogen, Afibrinogenemia disorder is found. Due to this disorder, most severe bleeding results out. High level of fibrinogen results out into Coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction and peripheral arterial disease.

A nurse/healthcare provider will take the sample of blood from your arm. With the aid of clean alcohol pad, the site of your arm will be cleaned. A needle will be inserted into the vein for taking the blood sample. The collected sample of your blood will be sent to the laboratory for analysis. With a cotton pad, the site from where the blood is taken out will be covered.