What is lupus anticoagulant test?

The lupus anticoagulant test is a blood test that is used to detect the presence of lupus anticoagulants in the blood. Lupus anticoagulant is an autoantibody that interferes with the blood clotting process and can increase the risk of blood clots or bleeding.

The lupus anticoagulant test is usually performed along with other tests to diagnose antiphospholipid syndrome, a condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks certain proteins in the blood, leading to blood clots or pregnancy complications. The test is also ordered when a person has had unexplained blood clots or a prolonged clotting time.

The lupus anticoagulant test involves a series of coagulation tests, including the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), dilute Russell viper venom time (dRVVT), and a clotting time assay. These tests are used to detect the presence of lupus anticoagulant activity in the blood. A positive result indicates the presence of lupus anticoagulant activity, but further testing and evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the significance of the result.

What are the uses of the lupus anticoagulant test?

The lupus anticoagulant test is primarily used to help diagnose antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), a condition that can cause blood clots in veins and arteries.

The lupus anticoagulant test is also used to investigate the cause of recurrent miscarriages. APS is associated with an increased risk of pregnancy complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, and pre-eclampsia.

In addition, the lupus anticoagulant test may be ordered if a person has a history of unexplained blood clots or if they have a prolonged clotting time.


How is the lupus anticoagulant test done?

The lupus anticoagulant test is a blood test that is typically performed in a laboratory or clinic. The healthcare provider will insert a needle and draw blood from the arm vein.

In the laboratory, the blood sample will undergo a series of coagulation tests, such as the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), dilute Russell viper venom time (dRVVT), and/or a clotting time assay.


Understanding test results

The results of the lupus anticoagulant test can be reported in different ways depending on the laboratory or clinic performing the test. However, a positive result typically means that there is lupus anticoagulant activity in the blood. A negative result means that there is no evidence of lupus anticoagulant activity.

It is important to note that a positive result does not necessarily mean that a person has antiphospholipid syndrome or is at increased risk for blood clots. Further testing and evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the significance of a positive result.

In addition, a positive lupus anticoagulant test result can also be seen in other conditions, such as:


Important information to know about this test

It is important to note that some medications, such as heparin, warfarin, and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), can interfere with the lupus anticoagulant test results. Therefore, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are taking before undergoing the test.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is lupus anti coagulant?

Lupus anticoagulant is not actually an anticoagulant but rather an antibody that can interfere with the blood clotting process. It is one of several antiphospholipid antibodies that can cause excessive clotting or bleeding.

2. Why is the lupus anticoagulant test performed?

The lupus anticoagulant test is ordered when someone has had unexplained blood clots or a prolonged clotting time. It is also ordered if a person has a history of recurrent miscarriages or a condition known as antiphospholipid syndrome.

3. How is the lupus anticoagulant test performed?

The lupus anticoagulant test involves a series of coagulation tests, including the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), dilute Russell viper venom time (dRVVT), and/or a clotting time assay. These tests are used to detect the presence of lupus anticoagulant activity in the blood.

4. How is a positive lupus anticoagulant test result interpreted?

A positive lupus anticoagulant test result indicates the presence of lupus anticoagulant activity in the blood. However, a positive test result does not necessarily mean that a person has antiphospholipid syndrome or is at increased risk for blood clots. Further testing and evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the significance of a positive result.

5. Can medications affect the lupus anticoagulant test results?

Yes, certain medications can interfere with the lupus anticoagulant test and lead to false positive results. These medications include heparin, warfarin, and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). It is important to inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are taking before undergoing the lupus anticoagulant test.

6. Is the lupus anticoagulant test painful?

No, the lupus anticoagulant test is a simple blood test that is typically performed in a laboratory or clinic. The blood sample is usually taken from a vein in the arm, and the procedure is generally quick and painless.

7. Do you have to fast for a lupus blood test?

Yes, fasting for 12 hours is required for lupus blood test.

8. What is the normal lupus anticoagulant range?

Normal values of lupus anticoagulant ranges from 20 to 39 GPL or MPL units.

9. What is the lupus anticoagulant test cost?

The lupus anticoagulants test price is Rs. 2,000 approximately. However, the price can differ from place to place.

10. Where can I get the lupus anticoagulant test?

You can get a lupus anticoagulant tests at Medicover Hospitals.