Examinations
Examinations
Lupus anticoagulant (LA) is a type of antiphospholipid antibody that increases the risk of blood clot formation (thrombosis). It is not specific to lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus - SLE) but is commonly found in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and autoimmune diseases.
Clinical Significance
- LA increases the risk of abnormal blood clotting, leading to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), stroke, and pregnancy complications.
- It is an important marker in diagnosing APS, which is associated with recurrent pregnancy loss, thrombosis, and autoimmune diseases.
- Patients with prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) are often tested for LA to determine if the cause is LA or another coagulation disorder.
- Fasting for 2-3 hours before the test (only plain water is allowed).
- Discontinue heparin and similar medications 5 days before testing (consult with a doctor).
- Avoid physical and emotional stress; do not smoke for at least 30 minutes before the test.
- Investigating causes of thrombosis
- Evaluating unexplained pregnancy loss (miscarriages)
- Determining if prolonged APTT is due to LA or another clotting disorder
- Diagnosing antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) (alongside cardiolipin and beta-2 glycoprotein antibodies)
- Confirming the presence of lupus anticoagulant
- Assessing clotting disorders in autoimmune diseases
Positive Lupus Anticoagulant Test May Indicate:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Multiple myeloma
- Ulcerative colitis
- Malignancies (cancer, leukemia, lymphoma)
- Secondary APS (due to infections, medications, or other conditions)
- Complications from certain medications (e.g., oral contraceptives, certain antibiotics, anticoagulants)