Understanding Lab Tests for Congenital Afibrinogenemia
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Congenital afibrinogenemia is an extremely rare inherited bleeding disorder characterized by the complete absence or severe deficiency of fibrinogen, a crucial protein needed for normal blood clotting. This genetic condition affects the body's ability to form blood clots, leading to prolonged bleeding episodes.
Recommended Test
Fibrinogen Antigen
This test directly measures the amount of fibrinogen protein present in the blood. In congenital afibrinogenemia, this test will show extremely low or undetectable levels of fibrinogen antigen, providing definitive evidence of this rare genetic bleeding disorder. This measurement is essential for both diagnosis and monitoring treatment response.
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Diagnosing Congenital Afibrinogenemia
Because congenital afibrinogenemia presents with bleeding symptoms that can overlap with other coagulation disorders, accurate diagnosis requires specific blood testing that measures fibrinogen levels. The characteristic finding is the complete absence or extremely low levels of fibrinogen in the blood, which distinguishes this condition from other bleeding disorders.
Understanding Your Results
Normal fibrinogen levels typically range from 200-400 mg/dL. In congenital afibrinogenemia, fibrinogen antigen levels are either completely absent (less than 5 mg/dL) or severely reduced. These results, combined with clinical symptoms and family history, help healthcare providers confirm the diagnosis and develop appropriate treatment plans.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Due to the rarity of this condition, specialized hematology consultation is often recommended for proper management.
