Genetic Tests for Thrombotic Disease Could Save Lives

A series of genetic tests are available that allow radical new approaches to the management of thrombotic disease, including deep vein thrombosis.

The low cost tests involve a simple cheek swab, and can be used to predict a patient's genetic risk of developing DVT, or other thrombotic disease, together with improved management of those patients who have already presented with symptoms.

Patients known to be at risk can be given pre-emptive treatment, such as low-molecular weight heparin to try to avoid the occurrence of the disease. However, patients for whom the risk is not known will not be able to benefit from such preventative measures. This can increase their chance of developing complications as a result of DVT or post-surgical trauma

A further problem for patients with thrombotic disease is that they are often treated with warfarin, a drug whose effective dose varies widely from patient to patient, and it can take a significant amount of time to adjust the dose to the correct level. In many instances, the early days following the onset of the disease can be a critical time for the patient.

Lab21 (Cambridge, UK) has also developed a genetic test that will allow doctors to pinpoint the exact drug dose required. Both genetic tests can be carried out on the same check swab sample and can be carried out at any point in time, even as part of a neonatal screening program.

Dr. Jerry Walker, CEO of Lab21 remarked, "Genetic testing has the potential to have a very positive impact on healthcare budgets. Furthermore, the routine availability of these tests could have a significant impact on the increasing problems associated with travel-related DVT.”

Lab21 is a provider of diagnostics, supporting drug discovery, healthcare, and environmental monitoring. Its customers include healthcare providers, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology companies, in addition to organizations that need to monitor their impact on the environment.


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