Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 19, 2026

Analyses of Proteinuria, Renal Infiltration of Leukocytes, and Renal Deposition of Proteins in Lupus-prone MRL/lpr Mice
Published on: June 8, 2022
Prevalence and Resolution of Lupus Anticoagulant in Children
Chandra Kallanagowdar1, Aman Chauhan2, Mora V Puertolas3
1Department of Hematology/Oncology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center/Children's Hospital, New Orleans, LA.
Insights
Lupus anticoagulant (LA) screening is recommended for children with prolonged partial thromboplastin time (PTT), even without a bleeding history. This study found a 21% incidence of LA in pediatric patients with abnormal PTT.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Hematology
- Autoimmune Disorders
- Coagulation Studies
Background:
- Lupus anticoagulant (LA) autoantibodies inhibit phospholipid-dependent reactions.
- Limited data exists on LA incidence and prevalence in pediatric populations.
- LA can be associated with bleeding abnormalities and complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- Determine the incidence and complication risk of LA in children with abnormal PTT.
- Identify clinical signs, symptoms, and medical history linked to LA.
- Correlate laboratory findings of bleeding abnormalities with clinical bleeding symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 112 pediatric patients with abnormal coagulation profiles or bleeding history.
- Patients were referred to a specialized Hematology/Oncology department.
- Follow-up continued until partial thromboplastin time (PTT) normalized.
Main Results:
- Preliminary incidence of LA was 21% in the study population.
- Resolution of LA correlated with PTT correction in 90% of patients.
- LA was identified in children presenting with abnormal coagulation profiles.
Conclusions:
- Screening for LA is recommended in children with prolonged PTT.
- LA evaluation can be beneficial even with a negative bleeding history.
- This approach may reduce extensive and costly blood workups.
Background:
Lupus anticoagulant (LA) is an autoantibody that inhibits phospholipid-dependent reactions. Studies on the incidence and prevalence of LA in the pediatric population are lacking. The objective of our study was to determine the incidence and potential risk of complications of LA in children presenting with abnormal partial thromboplastin time (PTT). Our secondary objective was to identify signs, symptoms, and medical history associated with the presence of LA as documented in the literature. We focused on the correlation between signs of LA in the form of laboratory values consistent with bleeding abnormalities and the presence of clinical symptoms of bleeding.
Methods:
We conducted a record-based retrospective analysis of 112 children and adolescents referred to the Department of Hematology/Oncology at Children's Hospital of New Orleans for abnormal coagulation profiles and/or history of mucocutaneous bleeding. Participants were followed up until PTT values normalized.
Results:
In our study population with suspected bleeding disorder, the preliminary incidence of LA was 21%. We found that resolution of LA correlated with correction of PTT in 90% of patients.
Conclusion:
To minimize extensive and expensive blood workup, we recommend that screening for LA be included in the evaluation of children with prolonged PTT, even if they have a negative history of bleeding problems.
Related Concept Videos
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Anticoagulant Drugs: Low-Molecular-Weight Heparins
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Distribution
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Metabolism

