[Lupus-type anticoagulants and thromboses].

The presence of a lupus circulating anticoagulant factor is recognised by prolongation of the coagulation time of certain tests such as the activated cephalin time and Quick's test: this abnormality is not corrected by adding plasma and is not associated with a deficit of any of the factors of coagulation. This is a common abnormality not only in patients with disseminated lupus erythematosis but also in other conditions, and it may also be observed in healthy subjects. This abnormality is often associated with thromboembolic complications although it is not possible to demonstrate a cause and effect relationship.