What does activated partial thromboplastin time indicate?

The aPTT test is used to measure and evaluate all the clotting factors of the intrinsic and common pathways of the clotting cascade by measuring the time (in seconds) it takes a clot to form after adding calcium and phospholipid emulsion to a plasma sample.

What does a high PTT LA screen mean?

Results that indicate that LA is NOT present may mean that signs and symptoms, such as a prolonged PTT, are due to some other cause such as deficiency on coagulation factor(s). For example, if LA is positive on two or more occasions at least 12 weeks apart, the results may indicate antiphospholipid syndrome.

How serious is lupus anticoagulant?

The presence of an antiphospholipid antibody such as the lupus anticoagulant and anticardiolipin antibody in an individual is associated with a predisposition for blood clots. Blood clots can form anywhere in the body and can lead to stroke, gangrene, heart attack, and other serious complications.

Can you have lupus without lupus anticoagulant?

People without lupus can also have antiphospholipid antibodies. The most commonly discussed antiphospholipid antibodies are the lupus anticoagulant (LA) and anticardiolipin antibody (aCL). These two antibodies are often found together, but can also be detected alone in an individual.

What is borderline positive lupus?

Borderline lupus, which can also be known as unspecified connective tissue disease, or probable lupus, or latent lupus, would define a patient who may have a positive ANA without a DNA or Smith antibody (blood tests used to diagnose lupus), who has arthralgias rather than arthritis, a brain fog or memory loss, and no …

What happens if your aPTT is high?

An increased activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), when the patient is not on anticoagulant therapy (heparin, warfarin, etc.) signifies a bleeding disorder. It takes the blood more time to form a blood clot and therefore there is a prolonged bleeding time when there is a hemorrhage.