Activated protein C resistance assay when applied in the general population, , ,

We estimated the predictive values of activated protein C resistance in the diagnosis of women who are carriers of factor V Leiden. When the prevalence of factor V Leiden is 2%, the positive predictive value is 44% and the cost of preventing one thromboembolic death is $44,180,000. Thus the activated protein C resistance assay is not cost-effective in ruling out factor V Leiden in this population. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1997;176:358-9.)