Test Name
DES-GAMMA-CARBOXY PROTHROMBIN
Aliases
PROTEIN INDUCED BY VITAMIN K ABSENCE OR ANTAGONIST II
Abbreviations
DCP, PIVKA-II
Test Classification
INDIVIDUAL
Department
SPECIAL CHEMISTRY
Sub Department
-
TAT Category
ELAPSED (CONTINUOUS) TIME
Estimated TAT
1
TAT Units
WEEKS
Test Requirements
Sample type: 2mL serum.
Stability: Room temperature: Stable for 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): Stable for 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): Stable for 3 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Shipping Temperature: Refrigerated [samples may be shipped refrigerated (2-8°C) on cold packs if they will be received and tested within the 7-day stability window] or frozen.
Clinical Utility
An abnormal (non-functional) form of prothrombin that is used to assess the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in high risk patients e.g. patients with chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis. It may also be used for monitoring in patients already known to have HCC. False positives occur with warfarin use or vitamin K deficiency. Best used alongside imaging and AFP.
Last Review
26th Feb 2026