Factor XIII test
Quick answer: This test measures factor XIII, a protein that strengthens and stabilises a blood clot. It is ordered for unexplained bleeding, poor wound healing or umbilical cord bleeding in newborns, when routine clotting tests are normal.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careSevere factor XIII deficiency can cause miscarriage and bleeding in pregnancy, so it may be checked in women with these problems.
How the test is done
- 1Blood is drawn into a light-blue citrate tube
- 2The tube is mixed and sent to the lab
- 3The lab checks the factor XIII level or how stable a clot is
- 4The result shows whether factor XIII is low
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Results are usually reported as normal or reduced activity; discuss them with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A low level can point to inherited factor XIII deficiency, which can cause delayed bleeding, poor wound healing and miscarriage. Routine PT and APTT are normal in this condition, so it needs a specific test.
Who usually has this test
People with bleeding despite normal routine clotting tests, babies with bleeding from the umbilical cord, and women with repeated miscarriage and bleeding.
Risks and aftercare
Bruising is possible; press firmly for a few minutes if you tend to bleed.
Names and options
Also called: factor 13, FXIII, fibrin stabilising factor
Listed by the hospital as
- FACTOR 13 PLASMA
Questions about this test
Why are my PT and APTT normal if I have a bleeding problem?
Factor XIII works after a clot forms, so standard clotting tests do not pick up its lack. A specific factor XIII test is needed.
Can factor XIII deficiency cause miscarriage?
Severe deficiency is linked with repeated miscarriage. Women with it are usually cared for by a specialist.
Is factor XIII deficiency common?
It is rare. It is usually inherited from both parents.
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.