Complex & Invisible Health / Inherited Clotting Risks

Inherited Clotting Risks

Some inherited gene variants increase the tendency to form blood clots in the veins. Knowing about them can help when making decisions with your doctor.

Inherited thrombophilia

Blood clotting is a carefully balanced process. Inherited thrombophilias are genetic differences that tip the balance toward clotting, raising the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism.

The best-known variants

Factor V Leiden (F5 gene) is the most common inherited thrombophilia in people of European ancestry. It makes clotting factor V harder to switch off.
Prothrombin G20210A (F2 gene) raises levels of prothrombin, a clotting protein.
MTHFR variants are sometimes included in clotting panels. On their own, current evidence shows they have little or no meaningful effect on clotting risk.

Most people who carry a clotting variant never have a clot. Risk also depends on factors such as surgery, long periods of immobility, pregnancy, estrogen-containing medications, smoking and family history.

A result can be useful background for conversations with your doctor about hormonal contraception, pregnancy, surgery or long-haul travel, especially if clots run in your family. It doesn't predict whether you'll have a clot.

Seek emergency care for sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or a painful, swollen leg.

Explore Related Testing

Laboratory: Genetrack · order through Wise Canary

DNA Thrombotic Risk Test

$240.00

What's tested: F5 variants (including Factor V Leiden), F2 (prothrombin) variants and MTHFR variants.
What it explores: Inherited variants associated with an increased tendency to form blood clots.
Why it may be relevant: Tests the two best-established inherited clotting variants, F5 and F2.
Sample: Cheek (buccal) swab, collected at home

View Test

For education only. This test does not diagnose any condition.