P-selectin blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

P-selectin is an adhesion molecule, a protein that helps cells stick to one another. It is stored inside platelets and inside the endothelial cells that line blood vessels. When these cells are activated, for example by injury or inflammation, P-selectin moves to their surface, where it helps white blood cells and platelets attach to the vessel wall. Some is also shed into the blood, and this soluble form is what the test measures.

Researchers have studied P-selectin in relation to blood vessel inflammation, clotting activity and the development of fatty plaques in arteries. This is an emerging marker, so its main role is to add detail alongside other tests and a clinical assessment; used alone as a screen, it tells you little. It is not used in routine NHS care to assess heart or clot risk.

Your price includes the sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request. No GP referral is needed.

Important: if you have chest pain, breathlessness, or a painful, swollen or red leg, call 999 or go to A&E. Do not book a blood test.

Who it is for

• You are having a detailed assessment of blood vessel health with a practitioner.
• You already know your cholesterol, blood pressure and other established risk factors and want extra context.
• You have an inflammatory condition and are interested in vascular markers.
• Your specialist has asked for P-selectin as part of ongoing follow-up.

Understanding your result

A raised P-selectin suggests increased activation of platelets or blood vessel lining, which can be seen with smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, raised cholesterol, inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, recent infection and some clotting disorders. Because the causes are so varied, a raised value does not point to one condition, and a normal value does not mean your heart or circulation are free of risk.

Your report shows the laboratory reference range. Your practitioner will read the result with your established risk factors, and a result outside the range is a prompt for discussion, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is needed. Avoid smoking and strenuous exercise on the day of the test, as both can activate platelets. Tell us if you take aspirin, clopidogrel, anticoagulants or anti-inflammatory medicines, and if you have had a recent infection or surgery. We will confirm any further preparation when you book.

P-selectin is one of the specialist vascular markers in Omnia Signature. For the established measures of heart risk, start with Heart Health. You can also view every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a P-selectin blood test in Chiswick?

The P-selectin test costs £109. This includes the sample at our clinic, laboratory analysis, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Can P-selectin tell me if I am at risk of a stroke or clot?

Not on its own. It is a research marker. Your risk is assessed using factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, smoking and family history.

Does aspirin affect the result?

It can, because aspirin and similar medicines reduce platelet activation. Let us know what you take so your practitioner can interpret the result.

Who should not rely on this test?

Anyone with symptoms of a heart attack, stroke or blood clot should seek emergency care, not a blood test.