Activated protein C resistance (APCR) test
Quick answer: An APCR test checks whether your blood resists the natural anti-clotting action of protein C, most often because of an inherited change called factor V Leiden. Doctors order it after unexplained blood clots, or when there is a family history of clots.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed; tell staff if you take blood thinners.
- In fertility careSome doctors check for inherited clotting tendencies after recurrent pregnancy loss or before pregnancy in women with a history of clots.
How the test is done
- 1You tell staff about any blood thinners you take
- 2A band is tied loosely and the skin is cleaned
- 3Blood is drawn into a special citrate tube, which must be filled correctly
- 4The lab tests how your plasma responds to activated protein C
What your results can mean
Reading your report
The result is read with other clotting tests, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A result showing resistance can point to factor V Leiden, an inherited change that raises the chance of blood clots. Pregnancy, some hormone medicines and blood thinners can also affect the result, so a genetic test is often used to confirm.
Who usually has this test
People with unexplained blood clots, clots at a young age, a family history of clots, or some women with recurrent pregnancy loss.
Risks and aftercare
You may bruise at the needle site, especially if you take blood thinners; press firmly for a few minutes.
Names and options
Also called: APCR, APC resistance, factor V Leiden screen
Listed by the hospital as
- APCR TEST (ACTIVATED PROTEIN C RESISTANCE)
Questions about this test
Is APCR the same as a factor V Leiden test?
Not exactly. APCR is a clotting test that checks how blood behaves, and factor V Leiden is the most common cause of resistance. A genetic test can confirm whether you carry the factor V Leiden change.
Does APCR matter for pregnancy?
Inherited clotting tendencies can raise the chance of clots during pregnancy and after birth. Your doctor will decide whether you need any monitoring or treatment based on your history.
Can I have the APCR test while on blood thinners?
Some blood thinners can affect the result. Tell your doctor what you take, as they may plan the timing of the test, but do not stop any medicine yourself.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.