Platelet Glycoprotein Antibody (10678X) Test

PLTA, i.e, Platelet Glycoprotein Antibody (10678X) aka Platelet Associated Antibody IgG/ IgM, Platelet Associated Autoantibody, Cell-Bound Platelet Autoantibody Solid Phase is clinically used for the diagnosis of thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia means the deficiency of platelets in the blood. Thrombocytopenia is caused by inherited disorders and immune or nonimmune related acquired disorders. Platelet autoantibodies directed against intrinsic platelet antigens (glycoproteins), immune complexes, drug-protein immune complexes, or other antigens binding the platelet surface can help differentiate between immune and nonimmune disorders. Two methods are available for direct platelet antibody detection. The flow cytometry method is suggested as an initial screen due to its superior sensitivity; it detects any platelet-associated IgG immunoglobulin that may be present in immune or nonimmune thrombocytopenia. Positive flow cytometry results should be confirmed with the more specific Enzyme Linked Immunoassay (ELISA) which detects only glycoprotein-specific platelet antibodies (GP IIb/IIIa, GPIb/IX, GPIa/IIa) that are associated with immune thrombocytopenia.

The test can be performed from Monday – Thursday only and not the day before a holiday. The patient must have a platelet count above 10,000 mm3. The patient must be positively identified when the specimen is collected.

Negative (IgG & IgM): No excess antibodies were associated with the patient's platelets. An immune cause of thrombocytopenia is unlikely. Positive (IgG and/or IgM): An increase in platelet associated immunoglobulin is noted. An immune cause of thrombocytopenia should be considered. However, many conditions can result in an increase in platelet associated antibodies; for example, IgM rheumatoid factor antibodies. Strong Positive (IgG and/or IgM): A definite increase in platelet associated immunoglobulin is noted and an immune cause of thrombocytopenia should be considered. However, many conditions can result in an increase in platelet associated antibodies; for example, IgM rheumatoid factor antibodies.

20 milliliters (Minimum: Adults -10 milliliters/Peds – 5 milliliters) whole blood will be drawn out of the patient’s body directly.
• An alcohol pad is used to clean the skin.
• A needle is then injected through the part of rinsed skin into to your vein; specifically in the one that can be seen from the skin.
• The blood is dragged out from the needle by a nozzle, saved in a lavender top tube and sealed with the patient’s name.
• This blood sample then is sent to the laboratory and is examined by the Solid Phase Enzyme Linked Immunoassay (ELISA) methodology.