Anti Phospholipid Antibody Test, Standard Panel

Antiphospholipid Test Overview

The immune system in our body is highly developed to combat a variety of infections and illnesses. It further creates antibodies, which are proteins. Occasionally, our immune system unintentionally targets our phospholipids, which can lead to blood clots and other health issues if left untreated.  Autoantibodies that attach to negatively charged phospholipids are known as antiphospholipid antibodies. Several symptoms, including arterial and venous thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, recurrent pregnancy loss, livedo reticularis, and cardiac, haematological, and neurological manifestations, are associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), an autoimmune disease.

During normal coagulation screening, doctors prescribe this test when a patient has prolonged clotting time, frequent miscarriages, or unexplained thrombotic events. The antiphospholipid blood test helps determine whether the immune system is disrupting normal coagulation regulation. Since untreated APS can result in major pregnancy issues affecting the brain, lungs, heart, and placenta, early identification is crucial.

Why is the Antiphospholipid Test Prescribed?

There are different reasons to undergo antiphospholipid test.

Sudden Blood Clots

Blood clots that are unexplained occur when a person gets clots in their veins or arteries without common risk factors, including surgery, trauma, or extended immobility.

Recurrent Miscarriages

Women are frequently evaluated if they have had two or more pregnancy losses that cannot be explained, stillbirths, or an early delivery because of placental insufficiency.

Evaluation of Autoimmune Disease

To determine whether there is an APS association, patients with lupus or other autoimmune diseases may be tested.

Prolonged Clotting Time (aPTT):

An unexplained prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin time may indicate the presence of lupus anticoagulant.

Components of Antiphospholipid Test

There are three different antibody tests conducted at the lab:

• Beta-2 Glycoprotein 1 (IgG)

The test helps to detect IgG antibodies against beta-2 glycoprotein 1, which are associated with autoimmune clotting disorders and antiphospholipid syndrome.

• Beta-2 Glycoprotein 1 (IgM)

Measures IgM antibodies targeting beta-2 glycoprotein 1, helping identify early or active autoimmune responses related to abnormal blood clotting.

• Cardiolipin Antibody (IgM)

The test helps to identify IgM antibodies against cardiolipin, often linked with increased risk of thrombosis and recurrent pregnancy complications.

• Cardiolipin Antibody (IgG)

Detects IgG antibodies against cardiolipin, commonly used in diagnosing antiphospholipid syndrome and assessing long-term autoimmune activity.

• Lupus Anticoagulant (by dRVVT)

Identifies lupus anticoagulant using the dilute Russell’s viper venom time (dRVVT) method, which helps assess abnormal clotting tendencies.

Preparation and Procedure

There is no special preparation required to undergo the test. No need to fast before the test. The process of the test is quite simple and doesn't take much time. In many cases, the test will be repeated after 12 weeks to check the presence of antibodies.