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Special Coagulation

The Special Coagulation Laboratory performs laboratory testing associated with disorders of bleeding and thrombosis. The laboratory is an essential part of the evaluation of a patient suffering from either a bleeding or thrombotic disorder. Disorders of hemostasis can be acquired or congenital and careful laboratory assessment helps clinicians sort out the root cause of bleeding or thrombosis in a given patient. Our genetic platform can be particularly helpful in pinpointing the specific DNA changes associated with thrombosis, such as the Factor V Leiden mutation, while the mainstay of testing for bleeding involves functional assays. An example of some of the diseases we evaluate are: von Willebrand Disease, Hemophilia A and B, anti-phospholipid syndrome, qualitative platelet abnormalities (inherited and acquired), deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, cardiovascular risk markers. An emerging area in our laboratory is a pharmacogenetics platform to assist clinicians in tailoring drug therapy based on an individual's genetic profile. One of the first drugs to show promise in this area is the anticoagulant warfarin (Coumadin), which is metabolized by the CYP2C9 enzyme. Several genetic changes in the CYP2C9 gene have been shown to place patients at increased risk of adverse drug effects. In addition to CYP2C9 many other genetic targets have the potential to guide patient-specific drug therapy. Finally, our medical director and technical laboratory staff are actively involved in discussions with clinicians to assist in problem-solving as it relates to the evaluation of a bleeding patient or one with a thrombotic condition.

Please visit our listing of available tests.

Faculty:

Andrews, David, M.D., Director, Special Coagulation Laboratory

Contact us at:

Mailing Address for Specimens - Forward specimens by courier or express mail to:

Department of Pathology
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
JMH/Holtz Center, Room #2064
1611 NW 12^th Avenue
Miami, Florida  33136