Question 1

What is Lupus Anticoagulant Presence?

Accepted Answer

Lupus anticoagulant refers to autoantibodies that interfere with phospholipid-dependent blood clotting tests in the laboratory. These antibodies are paradoxically associated with an increased risk of thrombosis (blood clots) rather than bleeding, despite prolonging clotting times in lab tests. The Prothrombin Time (PT) and Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) test is the most important screening test for diagnosing lupus anticoagulant presence.

Question 2

What causes lupus anticoagulant?

Accepted Answer

Lupus anticoagulant is caused by the immune system producing autoantibodies that target phospholipid-binding proteins in cell membranes. These antibodies develop when the body mistakenly attacks its own proteins, particularly beta-2 glycoprotein I and prothrombin. Lupus anticoagulant can occur in people with autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but it also appears in people without lupus, in pregnancy, with certain infections, or as a side effect of some medications. The condition is part of a broader syndrome called antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), which increases the risk of abnormal blood clots in veins and arteries.

Question 3

What is the best test for lupus anticoagulant?

Accepted Answer

The Prothrombin Time (PT) and Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) test is the most important initial screening test for lupus anticoagulant because it detects prolonged clotting times caused by these autoantibodies interfering with phospholipids in the test. The PTT portion is particularly sensitive to lupus anticoagulant presence, showing unexpectedly long clotting times. If the PTT is prolonged, additional confirmatory tests like mixing studies and specialized lupus anticoagulant panels may be performed to definitively diagnose the condition. Anticardiolipin antibodies and anti-beta-2 glycoprotein I antibodies are also measured to provide a complete picture of antiphospholipid syndrome.

Question 4

When should I get tested for lupus anticoagulant?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have experienced unexplained blood clots in your legs (deep vein thrombosis), lungs (pulmonary embolism), or other organs, especially if you are young or have recurrent clots. Testing is also important if you have had multiple unexplained miscarriages, particularly in the second or third trimester, or complications during pregnancy like preeclampsia or premature birth. Additionally, if you have an autoimmune disease like lupus or if routine blood work shows an unexplained prolonged PTT, you should be evaluated for lupus anticoagulant. Early detection helps prevent serious complications like stroke, heart attack, or pregnancy loss.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of lupus anticoagulant?

Accepted Answer

Lupus anticoagulant itself does not cause noticeable symptoms until a blood clot forms. When clots develop, you might experience leg pain, swelling, warmth, and redness from deep vein thrombosis, or sudden shortness of breath and chest pain from pulmonary embolism. Arterial clots can cause stroke symptoms like sudden weakness, confusion, vision changes, or difficulty speaking. In pregnancy, lupus anticoagulant may lead to recurrent miscarriages, stillbirth, or severe preeclampsia. Some people also develop a lacy purple discoloration of the skin called livedo reticularis, which is a sign of poor circulation.

Question 6

Who is at risk for lupus anticoagulant?

Accepted Answer

People with autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), are at higher risk for developing lupus anticoagulant, though most people with lupus anticoagulant do not have lupus. Women are more commonly affected than men, and the condition is more frequently diagnosed during childbearing years. You have increased risk if you have a family history of antiphospholipid syndrome or blood clotting disorders. Certain infections, cancers, and medications like phenothiazines and procainamide can temporarily cause lupus anticoagulant. People who have had unexplained blood clots or recurrent pregnancy losses are also at higher risk.

Question 7

What happens if lupus anticoagulant is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If lupus anticoagulant is left untreated, you face a significantly increased risk of developing dangerous blood clots throughout your body. These clots can cause life-threatening conditions like stroke, heart attack, pulmonary embolism, or deep vein thrombosis. In pregnancy, untreated lupus anticoagulant greatly increases the risk of recurrent miscarriages, stillbirth, premature delivery, and severe complications like preeclampsia. Some people develop catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome, a rare but severe condition where multiple blood clots form rapidly in different organs, which can be fatal. Early diagnosis and proper treatment with anticoagulant medications significantly reduce these risks and improve outcomes.

Question 8

Can lupus anticoagulant be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, lupus anticoagulant is diagnosed through specialized blood tests that measure how long your blood takes to clot. The Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) test is the primary screening tool, and lupus anticoagulant typically causes a prolonged PTT. If your PTT is abnormal, your doctor will perform mixing studies where your blood is mixed with normal plasma to see if the clotting time corrects. If it does not correct, this suggests lupus anticoagulant is present. Additional confirmatory tests like the dilute Russell viper venom time (dRVVT) and hexagonal phase phospholipid neutralization test are performed to definitively diagnose the condition. Testing must be repeated at least 12 weeks apart to confirm persistent presence.

Question 9

How is lupus anticoagulant treated?

Accepted Answer

Lupus anticoagulant is treated with anticoagulant medications that prevent blood clots from forming. If you have had a blood clot, you will typically be prescribed warfarin (Coumadin) or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like rivaroxaban or apixaban for long-term use. Low-dose aspirin may be recommended if you have lupus anticoagulant but have not yet had a clot. During pregnancy, treatment usually involves low-molecular-weight heparin injections combined with low-dose aspirin to prevent pregnancy complications and miscarriage. Your doctor will monitor your blood regularly to ensure your clotting levels remain in the safe range. Lifestyle modifications like staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged immobility also help reduce clotting risk.

Question 10

How can I prevent complications from lupus anticoagulant?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent complications by taking prescribed anticoagulant medications exactly as directed and attending all follow-up appointments for blood monitoring. Stay physically active and avoid sitting or standing for long periods, especially during travel, as immobility increases clot risk. Maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking, and manage other health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, work closely with a high-risk obstetrician who specializes in antiphospholipid syndrome. Inform all healthcare providers about your lupus anticoagulant diagnosis before any surgery or procedures. Wear a medical alert bracelet and know the warning signs of blood clots so you can seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop.

Question 11

What can I do at home to manage lupus anticoagulant?

Accepted Answer

At home, monitor yourself for signs of blood clots like leg swelling, chest pain, or sudden shortness of breath, and seek emergency care if these occur. Take your anticoagulant medication at the same time each day and never skip doses or stop without consulting your doctor. Keep a medication diary and track any unusual bleeding or bruising, as these may indicate your anticoagulation level needs adjustment. Stay well-hydrated and perform regular leg exercises, especially during long flights or car trips. Avoid activities with high injury risk and use soft toothbrushes and electric razors to minimize bleeding. Eat a balanced diet and if you are on warfarin, maintain consistent vitamin K intake from foods like leafy greens rather than avoiding them completely.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
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Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

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Lupus Anticoagulant Blood Test

What is Lupus Anticoagulant Presence?

What causes lupus anticoagulant?

What is the best test for lupus anticoagulant?

When should I get tested for lupus anticoagulant?

References

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