DCP – Decarboxy Prothrombin PIVKA II, Serum

What is a PIVKA II Test?

The PIVKA II Test, also known as the Des-gamma-carboxy Prothrombin or DCP Test, is a blood test that measures an abnormal form of the protein prothrombin. Normally, prothrombin helps your blood clot, but when the liver is not functioning properly, it produces an abnormal version known as PIVKA-II.

This test helps doctors detect hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer. It is especially useful for people with chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, orcirrhosis. The test can also help monitor treatment effectiveness and check for cancer recurrence after therapy.

What Does the PIVKA II Test Measure?

The PIVKA II test measures the amount of des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin in your blood. Elevated levels may indicate liver dysfunction or cancer. The test helps your doctor to:

• Detect hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) early
• Differentiate between benign and malignant liver conditions
• Monitor response to liver cancer treatment
• Assess risk and prognosis in chronic liver disease
• Identify possible recurrence of liver cancer after treatment
• Improve diagnostic accuracy when combined with the Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) test

PIVKA II Test: Who Needs It and Why It’s Done

What Symptoms May Call for a PIVKA II Test?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you experience:

• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
• Loss of appetite
• Dark urine or pale stools
• A known diagnosis of hepatitis B, hepatitis C or cirrhosis

Who Should Get a PIVKA II Test?

The test is particularly useful for:

• People with chronic liver disease such as cirrhosis or hepatitis
• Individuals at high risk for liver cancer
• Patients undergoing treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma
• Those being monitored for recurrence after liver cancer treatment
• People with abnormal liver function tests needing further evaluation

Why is a PIVKA II Test Done?

This test is done to help diagnose, monitor and manage liver cancer. It provides valuable information about liver health and helps distinguish between benign liver disorders and malignant growths.

Importance of a PIVKA II Test

The PIVKA II Test is a vital biomarker for liver cancer detection and monitoring. When used alongside imaging techniques and AFP testing, it offers a more comprehensive view of liver health. The test can detect early-stage HCC before symptoms appear, guide treatment planning and track how well treatment is working. It also helps in assessing the likelihood of cancer recurrence, improving long-term management for people with liver disease.

PIVKA II Test Booking and Reports – Metropolis Healthcare

How to Book the PIVKA II Test and Get Your Reports

1. Simple Online Booking
   You can book the test easily through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select the PIVKA II Test, choose your preferred time slot and provide your address for home collection. You may also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give your sample there.
2. Safe Home Sample Collection
   Our trained phlebotomists visit your home to collect the blood sample, following strict safety and hygiene standards.
3. Sample Tracking Updates
   Track your sample from collection to reporting through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your blood sample is tested in NABL and CAP accredited laboratories using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) technology for precision.
5. Quick and Easy Reports
   Reports are delivered via email, WhatsApp or can be downloaded from the Metropolis website or app.

Is Home Sample Collection for PIVKA II Test Available Near You?

Yes, Metropolis Healthcare offers safe and convenient home sample collection for the PIVKA II Test. Our team collects your sample at your preferred time, ensuring comfort, safety and timely reporting without the need for hospital visits.

In How Much Time Will I Get the PIVKA II Test Report?

Reports are typically available on the same day once your sample reaches the laboratory.
Note: Reporting time and cost may vary by location.

Where Can I See or Get PIVKA II Test Results?

You can view or download your test results through the Metropolis Healthcare website or app. Reports are also sent via email or WhatsApp, and you can collect a printed copy from the lab if required.

Interpreting PIVKA II Test Results

What Your PIVKA II Test Results May Indicate

Understanding Abnormal PIVKA II Test Results by Parameter

How Should You Prepare for a PIVKA II Test?

Follow these steps before your test:

• No fasting is required; you can eat and drink normally before the test.
• Inform your doctor about all medications you take, especially warfarin, antibiotics or vitamin supplements.
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test as it can affect liver function.
• Stay well hydrated before sample collection.
• Rest properly before your appointment and inform your doctor if you feel unwell.

How Is a PIVKA II Test Done? (Step-by-Step Procedure)

The test involves a standard blood collection process:

• A tourniquet is applied to your upper arm to make veins visible.
• The puncture site is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
• A sterile needle is used to collect around 3 ml of blood.
• The blood sample is placed in a gel vacutainer tube.
• After removal of the needle, a small bandage is applied.
• The sample is sent to the lab and processed using ECLIA technology for accurate results.

Conditions That May Affect PIVKA II Test Accuracy

Several factors can influence your PIVKA II test results:

• Use of warfarin or other anticoagulants may raise DCP levels.
• Vitamin K deficiency due to malnutrition or antibiotics can affect results.
• Liver diseases such as cholestasis or cirrhosis may alter PIVKA-II levels.
• Recent surgery or infection may cause temporary changes in blood proteins.
• Improper sample handling or delayed testing can affect accuracy.

Diseases That a PIVKA II Test Can Help Detect

The PIVKA II Test helps in detecting and monitoring:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (primary liver cancer)
• Chronic liver disease and cirrhosis
• Liver metastasis from other cancers
• Vitamin K deficiency disorders
• Biliary obstruction or cholestasis