Lupus Anticoagulant and Anticardiolipin Antibodies (Hughes Syndrome)
This test detects lupus anticoagulant and anticardiolipin antibodies. It helps assess antiphospholipid syndrome (Hughes syndrome) and abnormal clotting risk.
Turnaround time
Results available 4 days after arrival in laboratory.
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Lupus Anticoagulant and Anticardiolipin Antibodies (Hughes Syndrome)
What is the Lupus Anticoagulant and Anticardiolipin Antibodies Test?
This combined blood test screens for two key antiphospholipid antibodies: lupus anticoagulant and anticardiolipin antibodies. These antibodies interfere with normal blood clotting mechanisms and are central to the diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), also known as Hughes syndrome.
Despite the term “anticoagulant,” these antibodies increase the risk of abnormal blood clots in veins and arteries. They can also affect pregnancy outcomes by interfering with placental blood flow. Testing both markers together improves diagnostic accuracy compared with single-marker testing.
This panel is commonly used in haematology, obstetrics and autoimmune medicine.
Why do I need a test for Lupus Anticoagulant and Anticardiolipin Antibodies?
You may need this test if you have experienced unexplained blood clots, recurrent pregnancy loss or abnormal clotting test results. Hughes syndrome can present with serious complications but may remain undiagnosed without targeted testing.
Identifying these antibodies supports early diagnosis, appropriate anticoagulation planning and safer pregnancy management where relevant.
Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:
- Unexplained deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
- Stroke or transient ischaemic attack at a young age
- Recurrent miscarriage or pregnancy complications
- Prolonged clotting test results without bleeding
- Suspected antiphospholipid syndrome
- Autoimmune disease assessment
- Monitoring known Hughes syndrome
- Unexplained arterial or venous thrombosis
Benefits of the Lupus Anticoagulant and Anticardiolipin Test
- Improves diagnosis of Hughes syndrome
Combines two core antiphospholipid markers. - Identifies increased clotting risk
Supports early risk stratification. - Guides anticoagulation decisions
Helps determine need for long-term therapy. - Supports pregnancy risk assessment
Essential in recurrent miscarriage evaluation. - Explains paradoxical clotting test results
Clarifies prolonged clotting times with thrombosis risk. - Relevant in autoimmune disease workup
Often assessed alongside lupus and other autoimmune conditions. - Clinically validated testing approach
Widely used in haematology and obstetrics. - Supports long-term monitoring and prevention
Enables proactive management of future complications.
Step-by-Step: How Testing Works
Choose your preferred testing method
You can attend one of our UK partner clinics or arrange a home or hotel visit with a mobile phlebotomist.
Option 1 – In-Clinic Blood Draw
- Select your nearest UK clinic and book an appointment.
- A clinician or phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.
- The sample undergoes specialised coagulation and antibody assays.
- Results are delivered securely online.
Option 2 – Home or Hotel Phlebotomy (+£60)
- Book a UK-wide home or hotel visit at a convenient time.
- A trained phlebotomist collects your blood sample on-site.
- The sample is transported to the laboratory.
- Results are uploaded digitally without the need to travel.
Your Results Explained
Negative Results
Neither lupus anticoagulant nor anticardiolipin antibodies detected.
This reduces the likelihood of antiphospholipid syndrome at the time of testing.
Borderline / Indeterminate Results
Low or inconsistent antibody levels detected.
Repeat testing after at least 12 weeks may be recommended to confirm persistence.
Positive Results
One or both antibodies detected.
Persistent positivity, combined with clinical symptoms, supports a diagnosis of Hughes syndrome.
UK diagnostic criteria require antibody persistence over time.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.