Phospholipid Antibodies Panel (IgG, IgA & IgM), Serum

Antiphospholipid antibody testing is used to help determine the cause of: Inappropriate blood clot formation (unexplained thrombotic episode, excessive clotting) Recurrent miscarriage Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) Prolonged PTT test Depending on a person's signs and symptoms and medical history, a healthcare practitioner may order one or more of these tests to help detect the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies and/or to help diagnose antiphospholipid syndrome (APS): Cardiolipin antibodies (IgG, IgM, and sometimes IgA) are frequently ordered since they are the most common antiphospholipid antibodies. Lupus anticoagulant assays (e.g., RVVT, LA-sensitive PTT) if a person has a prolonged PTT test. Beta-2 glycoprotein 1 testing may be ordered along with the other antiphospholipid antibodies to detect their presence and to provide the healthcare practitioner with additional information. If an antiphospholipid antibody is detected, the same test(s) may be repeated 12 weeks later to determine whether their presence is persistent or temporary. Testing may also be performed to help diagnose and/or evaluate a person with an autoimmune disorder, which can occur along with disorders like lupus. If a person with an autoimmune disorder tests negative for antiphospholipid antibodies, testing may be repeated to determine if an antibody has developed in the course of the disease.

Is there anything I can do to prevent or get rid of antiphospholipid antibodies?

No. The process by which these autoantibodies develop is not well understood. There are controllable risk factors, however, such as smoking and obesity that also increase your risk of clotting. Addressing these issues may help to lower your overall risk of developing blood clots but will not prevent the development of antiphospholipid antibodies or get rid of them once they are present.

If I have one antiphospholipid antibody, will I develop others?

It is possible, but there is no way to predict when or if this will happen. Antiphospholipid antibody development, and the development of symptoms and complications, varies by individual.

What is lupus anticoagulant?

Lupus anticoagulant (LA) is a type of antiphospholipid antibody that interferes with the clotting process in a test tube (so-called anticoagulant) but is associated with excessive clotting (venous or arterial thrombosis) in the body. There is no specific test for LA but is determined by performing a series of tests. For more details, see the article on Lupus Anticoagulant Testing.

Should everyone be tested for antiphospholipid antibodies?

General screening is not necessary. Testing is usually only performed if a person has associated signs or symptoms or as a follow up to other testing. Most people will never need to have this testing performed.