Description

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS / APLS) Test

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), sometimes called APLS, is an autoimmune condition associated with recurrent miscarriage, other pregnancy complications and an increased risk of thrombosis.

This APS blood test checks for the principal antiphospholipid antibodies used when investigating antiphospholipid syndrome. Testing may form part of a recurrent miscarriage investigation or assessment of recurrent pregnancy loss where clinically appropriate.

What does the antiphospholipid syndrome screen include?

The screen includes:

• Lupus anticoagulant (LA)
• Anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL / ACA), IgG and IgM
• Anti-beta-2 glycoprotein I antibodies (β2GPI), IgG and IgM

Together, these tests provide a comprehensive antiphospholipid antibody screen.

APS and recurrent miscarriage

Antiphospholipid syndrome is a recognised potentially treatable cause of recurrent miscarriage.

Testing for antiphospholipid antibodies may therefore be appropriate as part of a recurrent miscarriage or recurrent pregnancy loss investigation, depending on your individual pregnancy history, medical history and any previous test results.

Not everyone who has experienced miscarriage requires the same investigations. If you are unsure which tests are appropriate for you, you may wish to arrange a Recurrent Miscarriage Consultation before undertaking testing.

When should I have the APS blood test?

Following a miscarriage, APS testing should usually be performed at least six weeks after the pregnancy loss.

A single positive antiphospholipid antibody result does not establish a diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome.

If an initial result is positive, repeat testing at least 12 weeks later is required to demonstrate persistent antiphospholipid antibodies.

Your results should be interpreted alongside your medical history and previous pregnancy outcomes.

What happens if my result is positive?

A positive antiphospholipid antibody result does not necessarily mean that you have APS.

The diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome depends on the combination of appropriate clinical history and persistent laboratory findings. If your result is abnormal, further testing and medical review may therefore be recommended.

Where APS is confirmed in someone with a history of recurrent miscarriage, treatment may be recommended during a future pregnancy.

Further information about antiphospholipid syndrome

For a more detailed explanation of APS / APLS, including diagnosis, recurrent miscarriage, pregnancy complications and treatment, please read:

Understanding Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome (APLS or APS)

Laboratory information for staff

Laboratory: The Doctors Laboratory (TDL)

TDL test codes:
LUPA
B2GP

Samples required:
2 × blue-top citrate tubes
3 × gold-top serum tubes

Testing is performed by The Doctors Laboratory (TDL).