Lupus Anticoagulant Test

Lupus anticoagulants are antibodies against substances in the lining of the cells. These substances prevent blood clotting which are called phospholipids. People with antibodies to phospholipids may have a high risk of forming blood clots.

It is usually ordered with other related tests when someone has an unexplained blood clot in a vein or artery, with symptoms ranging to deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, if a woman experiences recurrent miscarriages, a person with the signs and symptoms of APS, etc. If the tests return positive, it is normally followed up with another test after 12 weeks to confirm that the condition is still present.

This test, unlike other common blood tests, does not require fasting. No other special preparation is required, and it is advisable for the test taker to inform their doctor or test provider about any medical conditions or allergies otherwise existing. The doctor must also be informed of any other medications that the test taker is taking, pursuant to which the doctor will give specific instructions.

It is advisable that the test taker wears a shirt or t-shirt which exposes the forearm or is loose enough to roll up, as the test site is the forearm.

The lupus anticoagulant test may be used to detect a variety of problems, including: An unexplained blood clot, i.e. thrombosis in a vein or artery of the person Recurrent miscarriages in a woman An unexplained prolonged PTT test, i.e. the time it takes in seconds for a person’s blood sample to clot in a test tube after reagents are added to it.

This test will help determine if the prolonged PTT is because of a specific inhibitor such as an antibody against a specific coagulation factor, or to a nonspecific inhibitor like the lupus anticoagulant. It can also be used to diagnose antiphospholipid syndrome or an excessive clotting disorder called thrombophilia along with other tests.

The drawing of blood is done in a test centre, hospital or at home by a trained professional. The site of drawing blood is generally the inside of your elbow. The area is first rubbed with alcohol using a cotton pad. A disposable needle is injected into a vein which can be seen in this area and blood is drawn. This is then stored in a specific container with the details of the person. This sample is sent to the research laboratory for results.