Lupus Anticoagulant (LAC) Profile

The lupus anticoagulant (LAC) profile is a group of blood tests used to detect lupus anticoagulant antibodies, which are abnormal immune proteins that interfere with the body’s natural clotting process. These antibodies do not cause bleeding; instead, they increase the risk of abnormal blood clots (thrombosis) in veins and arteries. This test helps diagnose antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), a serious autoimmune condition linked to complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), stroke, repeated miscarriages, and pregnancy-related issues.

Doctors may recommend this profile if symptoms include unexplained blood clots, frequent miscarriages, stroke at a young age, or prolonged clotting time on routine lab tests. It is also advised in cases of autoimmune diseases like lupus, or during evaluation for clotting disorders, before surgery, or during pregnancy.

The profile includes three main tests: dilute Russell viper venom time (DRVVT) to screen for clotting delays, activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) to measure how long blood takes to clot, and the lupus anticoagulant confirmatory test to detect these specific antibodies.

An overnight fast is preferred but not mandatory for the Lupus Anticoagulant (LAC) Profile. A duly filled coagulation requisition form (Annexure - CR/05) is mandatory for sample collection. Kindly provide complete clinical details and medication history or a doctor's prescription. This information is important for the correlation of the test results. Inform the doctor about all medications (e.g., blood thinners or anticoagulant medications) and supplements currently being taken, as some of them may affect the test results, potentially requiring dosage adjustments or temporary discontinuation before the test.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Do not self-medicate, and always consult a doctor to understand the test results correctly. This test provides vital information that can guide timely treatment and help prevent future clotting complications.

Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.