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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Coagulation

Lupus Anticoagulant

Lupus anticoagulant testing identifies one of the strongest predictors of thrombosis. Including it in a comprehensive screen provides critical clotting risk information.

What It Measures

This test detects the presence of lupus anticoagulant antibodies through a series of phospholipid-dependent clotting assays. It is reported as positive or negative, not as a quantitative level.

Why It Matters

Lupus anticoagulant is the strongest predictor of thrombosis among the antiphospholipid antibodies. Persistent positivity (confirmed at 12+ weeks) is required for APS diagnosis.

When to Test

Testing could be indicated for unexplained thrombosis, recurrent pregnancy loss, unexplained prolonged aPTT, or suspected antiphospholipid syndrome.

Symptoms

Low Levels

A negative result means lupus anticoagulant was not detected, which is normal and does not require follow-up.

High Levels

A positive lupus anticoagulant is associated with increased risk of venous and arterial thrombosis, stroke, and pregnancy complications including recurrent miscarriage and pre-eclampsia.

Lifestyle Tips

If lupus anticoagulant is persistently positive, discuss long-term anticoagulation with your healthcare provider. Reduce modifiable thrombosis risk factors and avoid oestrogen-containing contraception.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does lupus anticoagulant mean I have lupus?
No. Despite its name, lupus anticoagulant can occur in people without lupus. It is found in antiphospholipid syndrome, other autoimmune conditions, and sometimes in healthy individuals.
Why does it cause clotting if it is called an anticoagulant?
The name is misleading. It prolongs clotting in laboratory tests but promotes clotting in the body. This paradox is a key feature of antiphospholipid antibodies.
How many times must it be positive for diagnosis?
Antiphospholipid syndrome requires persistent positivity confirmed on two occasions at least 12 weeks apart.