Lupus anticoagulants are antibodies against substances in the lining of cells that prevent blood clotting in a test tube. These substances are called phospholipids.

Persons with these antibodies may have an abnormally high risk of blood clotting.

See also: Antibody

Lupus anticoagulants are usually found in persons with autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

They may also be found in persons who take certain medications, including phenothiazines, phenytoin, hydralazine, quinine, and the antibiotic amoxicillin.

Persons with inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), infections, and certain tumors may have lupus anticoagulants.

Some people have no risk factors for this condition. In some cases, SLE is linked to an increased risk of blood clots and may be the cause of recurrent miscarriages.

Images

Blood clots

Systemic lupus erythematosus rash on the face

Review Date: 01/24/2011
Reviewed By: Todd Gersten, M.D., Hematology/Oncology, Palm Beach Cancer Institute, West Palm Beach, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)