Lupus Anticoagulant by DRVVT (LA-dRVVT)

The dRVVT test uses venom from the Russell's viper to initiate blood clotting. The venom specifically targets clotting factors in the blood, and the time taken for clotting to occur gives an indication of whether lupus anticoagulant is present.

No, a positive test does not necessarily mean you have lupus. Lupus anticoagulant can be present in a variety of conditions, not just lupus. This includes other autoimmune diseases, infections, and certain medications.

There is no special preparation needed for the test. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of any medications or supplements you are taking as they may interfere with the results.

During the test, a healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. This blood sample will be sent to a laboratory and tested for the presence of lupus anticoagulant.

The test results will show either a normal or prolonged clotting time. A prolonged clotting time may indicate the presence of lupus anticoagulant. However, further tests may be required to confirm the result.

If you test positive for lupus anticoagulant, it means you have an increased risk of developing blood clots. Your healthcare provider may recommend treatment or further testing to monitor your condition.

Yes, certain medications can affect the result of the test. These include anticoagulant medications, certain antibiotics, and some anti-inflammatory drugs. If you are taking any of these, inform your healthcare provider.

Yes, the test can be taken during pregnancy. In fact, it is often performed in pregnant women who have had recurrent miscarriages as lupus anticoagulant can increase the risk of miscarriage.

You may feel a slight prick when the needle is inserted into your vein, but the test is generally not painful. If you are anxious about the procedure, you can discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Yes, the test is considered safe. However, as with any blood test, there can be minor risks such as bruising at the site of the needle insertion or fainting.

While the LA-dRVVT test specifically tests for lupus anticoagulant, a positive result may lead to further investigations for other underlying conditions such as lupus or other autoimmune diseases.

Yes, the presence of lupus anticoagulant can vary over time. In some cases, it may be temporarily present then disappear, or it may persist over time.

Your healthcare provider may recommend repeating the test if the result was inconclusive, or to monitor the presence of lupus anticoagulant over time.

Since lupus anticoagulant is often associated with autoimmune diseases and other medical conditions, it cannot be prevented. However, if you test positive for lupus anticoagulant, your healthcare provider may recommend strategies to reduce your risk of developing blood clots.

There's no cure for lupus anticoagulant. If you've been diagnosed with lupus anticoagulant and have had blood clots, your doctor may recommend medications to prevent future clots.

The test is highly sensitive and specific, but it's not perfect. False positives can occur, especially among people who are taking certain medications or have certain viral infections. Thus, it's essential to interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Lupus anticoagulant is associated with an increased risk of blood clots. If you have this antibody, your doctor may order more tests to understand better your risk of clotting and decide on the best treatment approach.

Yes, children can undergo this test, particularly if they show symptoms suggestive of a clotting disorder or if they have an unexplained prolonged PTT test.

Yes, if you have lupus anticoagulant, it may increase your risk of blood clots during or after surgery. Your healthcare team will take steps to manage this risk.

Yes, regular exercise is beneficial for overall health and can help prevent blood clots. However, it's best to discuss with your doctor what types and amounts of exercise are safe for you.

There are no natural treatments that can eliminate lupus anticoagulant. The main goal of treatment is to reduce the risk of blood clots, which can be achieved through prescribed medications and a healthy lifestyle.

If you have a family history of lupus anticoagulant, discuss this with your doctor. They may recommend regular monitoring or screening tests.

Lupus anticoagulant can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, including pre-eclampsia, miscarriage, and preterm birth. If you are pregnant and have lupus anticoagulant, you will need careful monitoring and management.

The frequency of testing depends on your symptoms, medical history, and whether you've previously tested positive for lupus anticoagulant. Your doctor can provide personalized advice.