These tests can be further explained by your physician. The most common manifestation of this is phlebitis or inflammation of the vessels in the calves of the legs. Presence of these antibodies in the absence of any abnormal clotting may require simple aspirin therapy to mildly thin the blood. However, evidence of abnormal blood clotting may require that the patient take a blood thinner like heparin and later warfarin to prevent blockage of small and large blood vessels. When blockage occurs in the lung or the brain it can be very serious.
Laboratory tests are most useful when one remembers the following information.
If a person has only two or three of the ACR criteria, including a positive ANA, then the ANA supports but does not confirm the diagnosis. A person may only have positive antiphospholipid antibodies and be diagnosed with primary antiphospholipid syndrome instead of lupus. People with primary APL syndrome might still have problems with premature clotting of blood and require treatment. Physicians will sometimes also perform skin biopsies of both the individual's rashes and his or her normal skin. These biopsies can help diagnose systemic lupus in about 75 percent of patients.