Should asymptomatic individuals be screened for thrombophilia?
• Screening of asymptomatic individuals, whether family members of a patient with thrombosis, or in a situation that places them at increased risk for thrombosis, is generally not recommended. • However, in selected situations, knowledge of a specific thrombophilic state might guide therapeutic decision-making (e.g., decision concerning HRT usage). Return to Top SLIDE 13: On the other hand, one doesn’t even need the doctor to order the test… Photo of www.dnadirect.com Return to Top SLIDE 14: Future directions for thrombophilia testing • Prospective clinical studies to define: • Role, if any, of screening asymptomatic family members or individuals in high-risk situations. • Impact on optimal therapy for patients with venous thrombosis and thrombophilia. • Better education for providers as well as consumers concerning risk factors, prevention strategies, need for genetic counseling, etc.
