Question 1

What is Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder where the body produces antibodies that attack phospholipids, causing abnormal blood clotting. It is caused by the immune system creating antiphospholipid antibodies that interfere with proteins in the blood, leading to increased risk of blood clots in veins and arteries. The Prothrombin Time (PT) (INR) and Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) is the most important test for evaluating how these antibodies affect blood clotting function.

Question 2

What causes Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Antiphospholipid Syndrome is caused by the immune system producing abnormal antibodies called antiphospholipid antibodies that mistakenly attack phospholipids, which are essential fat molecules found in cell membranes and blood proteins. These antibodies interfere with the normal clotting process by targeting proteins that regulate blood coagulation, particularly beta-2 glycoprotein I and prothrombin. This autoimmune reaction can develop on its own (primary APS) or alongside other autoimmune conditions like lupus (secondary APS), and while the exact trigger is unknown, genetic factors and certain infections may play a role in its development.

Question 3

What is the best test for Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

Accepted Answer

The Prothrombin Time (PT) (INR) and Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) is the most important test for Antiphospholipid Syndrome because it measures how long your blood takes to clot and reveals how antiphospholipid antibodies are affecting your coagulation system. In APS, you will typically see a prolonged PTT as the antibodies interfere with the clotting cascade, while the PT/INR helps monitor treatment with blood thinners. These functional coagulation tests work alongside specialized antibody tests (like anticardiolipin and lupus anticoagulant tests) to give doctors a complete picture of both the presence of antibodies and their real-world impact on your blood clotting ability, which is essential for determining treatment and preventing dangerous clots.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have experienced unexplained blood clots in your legs, lungs, or brain, have had multiple miscarriages or pregnancy complications without another cause, or have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease like lupus. Testing is also important if you have had a stroke or heart attack at a young age (under 50), develop unusual clotting patterns during routine blood work, or have a family history of blood clotting disorders. Early detection through blood testing can prevent life-threatening complications like pulmonary embolism, stroke, or recurrent pregnancy loss by allowing your doctor to start appropriate anticoagulant therapy.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

Accepted Answer

The most common symptoms of Antiphospholipid Syndrome include blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) causing pain, swelling, and redness, or clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) causing chest pain and shortness of breath. Women with APS often experience recurrent miscarriages, particularly in the second or third trimester, preeclampsia, or premature birth. Other symptoms can include stroke or mini-strokes causing confusion or weakness, heart attack at a young age, persistent headaches or migraines, a lacy purple rash called livedo reticularis on the skin, and low platelet counts. Some people may have the antibodies without symptoms, which is why testing becomes critical when risk factors are present.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Women are at significantly higher risk than men, particularly those of childbearing age, and the condition is most commonly diagnosed between ages 20 and 50. People with other autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (about 30-40% of lupus patients have antiphospholipid antibodies), rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjogren syndrome have increased risk. Additional risk factors include having a family history of APS or blood clotting disorders, certain infections like hepatitis C or HIV, smoking, taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, and prolonged immobility such as long plane flights or bed rest. Pregnancy itself can trigger symptoms in women who carry the antibodies.

Question 7

What happens if Antiphospholipid Syndrome is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated Antiphospholipid Syndrome can lead to life-threatening complications including recurrent blood clots that can cause stroke, heart attack, or pulmonary embolism. Pregnant women face devastating outcomes such as repeated miscarriages, stillbirth, severe preeclampsia, or premature delivery that can threaten both mother and baby. Over time, repeated clotting episodes can cause permanent organ damage to the kidneys, heart, brain, and lungs, and a rare but catastrophic complication called catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome can occur where multiple organs fail simultaneously due to widespread clotting. Early diagnosis through blood testing and proper treatment with anticoagulants can prevent these serious outcomes and allow people with APS to live normal, healthy lives.

Question 8

Can Antiphospholipid Syndrome be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Antiphospholipid Syndrome is diagnosed through blood tests that detect specific antibodies and measure blood clotting function. The diagnostic process requires finding antiphospholipid antibodies (including anticardiolipin antibodies, anti-beta-2 glycoprotein I antibodies, or lupus anticoagulant) in your blood on two separate occasions at least 12 weeks apart, combined with clinical evidence of clotting problems or pregnancy complications. The PT/INR and PTT tests measure how your blood clots and help identify the functional impact of these antibodies on your coagulation system, with a prolonged PTT being a common finding. These blood tests are essential not only for diagnosis but also for monitoring treatment effectiveness and adjusting blood thinner medications to prevent future clots.

Question 9

How is Antiphospholipid Syndrome treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for Antiphospholipid Syndrome focuses on preventing blood clots using anticoagulant medications, with the specific approach depending on your symptoms and history. If you have had blood clots, you will typically need long-term blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin), which requires regular PT/INR monitoring to ensure the dose is therapeutic, or newer anticoagulants like rivaroxaban or apixaban. Pregnant women with APS usually receive low-dose aspirin combined with heparin injections throughout pregnancy to prevent miscarriage and complications, as warfarin cannot be used during pregnancy. People with antibodies but no history of clots may take low-dose aspirin as prevention, while those with severe cases might need more aggressive therapy including hydroxychloroquine or immunosuppressive medications.

Question 10

How can I prevent Antiphospholipid Syndrome complications?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot prevent developing Antiphospholipid Syndrome itself, you can significantly reduce your risk of dangerous complications by taking prescribed anticoagulant medications exactly as directed and attending regular blood test monitoring appointments to keep clotting levels in the safe range. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as both increase clotting risk, and stay well-hydrated especially during travel or illness. Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet, discuss alternatives with your doctor if you are on birth control pills or hormone therapy, and wear compression stockings during long flights or periods of immobility. Most importantly, know the warning signs of blood clots (leg pain, chest pain, shortness of breath) and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.

Question 11

What can I do at home to manage Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

Accepted Answer

At home, focus on lifestyle modifications that support healthy circulation and reduce clotting risk by staying active with regular low-impact exercise like walking or swimming, which keeps blood flowing and prevents clots from forming in your legs. Maintain a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods including leafy greens, fatty fish, berries, and nuts, while avoiding excessive vitamin K-rich foods if you take warfarin, as they can interfere with the medication. Keep a symptom diary tracking any unusual pain, swelling, or changes so you can discuss them with your doctor, and always wear a medical alert bracelet identifying your condition in case of emergencies. Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation, ensure adequate sleep, and build a strong support network of family, friends, and healthcare providers who understand your condition and can help you stay vigilant about prevention.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
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                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
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                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
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            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Antiphospholipid Syndrome Blood Test

What is Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

What causes Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

What is the best test for Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

When should I get tested for Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

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