Yes. This genetic test is performed by extracting DNA from the patient’s leukocytes and then testing that DNA for the presence or absence of two MTHFR gene variants (C677T and A1298C). Heparin and warfarin are not known to affect this testing methodology.
Question 3. My patient has had recurrent miscarriages. How do I interpret the result of this test in that context?
The role of MTHFR variants in miscarriage is controversial; most evidence shows that MTHFR variant status does not predict thrombophilia or pregnancy loss in pregnant women.1,2 Consider investigating the presence or absence of other risk factors.
Question 4. What is the clinical significance of the C677T variant?
Modest positive association has been found between the C677T variant of the MTHFR gene and many other medical complications, such as recurrent pregnancy loss, risk of offspring with neural tube defects, neuropsychiatric disease, and chemotherapy toxicity. Increased risk of CAD and venous thromboembolism and increased plasma homocysteine can be caused by a variety of genetic and nongenetic factors not screened for by this assay. If indicated by a personal or family history of thromboembolism, consider additional testing such as plasma homocysteine levels and factor V Leiden and prothrombin gene mutations.