Lupus Anticoagulant
How to prepare
You can eat and drink normally before the test.
No special preparation needed.
Tell our phlebotomist about any medicines you take. Don't stop them without asking your doctor.
Wear a loose sleeve so the sample can be taken easily from your arm.
How it works
About this test
Lupus anticoagulant is an antibody that makes the blood more likely to clot, even though it prolongs clotting time in the lab. It is a key test for antiphospholipid syndrome.
Why is this test done?
- Find the cause of unexplained blood clots
- Investigate repeated miscarriages
- Explain a prolonged APTT result
- Check patients with lupus
Symptoms — when should you get tested?
- Clots in leg veins or lungs
- Repeated miscarriages
- Stroke at a young age
- Low platelet count
Normal range
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, methods, age and sex. Always discuss your report with your doctor.
If your result is high
A "Detected" result means lupus anticoagulant is present and the risk of clots is higher. It is usually confirmed by repeating after 12 weeks.
Common reasons- Antiphospholipid syndrome
- Lupus (SLE)
- Some infections and medicines
How is the test done?
- 1Book online
Choose your slot for home collection or a visit to our centre.
- 2Blood sample taken
A trained phlebotomist takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm with a sealed, single-use needle. It takes about 2 minutes.
- 3Tested in our lab
Your barcoded sample is tested on automated machines with strict quality checks.
- 4Report on WhatsApp
A pathologist checks the result and the report reaches you on WhatsApp and email.
Frequently asked questions
No. Many people with this antibody do not have lupus.
Yes. Tell us if you take any blood thinner, as it can affect the result.
No fasting is needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally.
Your report is usually ready in same day after the sample reaches our lab. We send it on WhatsApp and email, and you can also download it from the Reports page.
Please call our team to confirm whether home sample collection is available for your location and test.
This test needs a blood sample. No special preparation needed.