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Antiphospholipid antibodies: method of detection.
1Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, KY 40292.
Summary
Antiphospholipid antibody tests, including ELISA and lupus anticoagulant assays, detect similar conditions. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is standardized and relies on beta 2-glycoprotein I cofactor.
Area of Science:
- Clinical immunology and diagnostics
- Thrombosis and hemostasis research
Background:
- Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and lupus anticoagulant (LA) are critical markers in diagnosing antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
- These tests, while related, assess different aspects of the prothrombotic state.
- The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for aPL has become a standardized diagnostic tool.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the relationship between antiphospholipid antibody testing and lupus anticoagulant detection.
- To highlight the role of beta 2-glycoprotein I as a cofactor in aPL assays.
- To emphasize the importance of performing both tests in suspected APS cases.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of antiphospholipid antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
- Assessment of lupus anticoagulant activity.
- Radioimmunoassay as an alternative method for aPL detection was mentioned.
Main Results:
- Antiphospholipid antibody tests (ELISA) and lupus anticoagulant assays detect similar but distinct phenomena.
- The ELISA method for detecting aPL is well-standardized.
- Beta 2-glycoprotein I is identified as a crucial cofactor, potentially primary, for aPL detection via ELISA.
Conclusions:
- Both antiphospholipid antibody (ELISA) testing and lupus anticoagulant assays are recommended for patients with suspected antiphospholipid syndrome.
- Understanding the cofactor dependence (beta 2-glycoprotein I) of ELISA tests is important for accurate interpretation.
- Combined testing improves diagnostic accuracy for APS.