What is the link between coumadin use and lupus?

Posted by Karen on June 18, 1999 at 17:37:55
Dear Heart Forum,
I am a 32 year old female.  I am an athlete in good shape with three children.  In March of 1999, I was diagnosed with a pulminary embolism.  The cause was found to be the birth control pill.  I have been on coumadin since March 11, 1999.  In early May, I was tested for lupus.  The tests came back borderline for connective tissue disease.  I have no symptons of lupus, but the doctors want me to test again after I am off of the blood thinners.  They have told me not to worry.  If I do not have lupus, what is in the coumadin that could make the test come back borderline?  What would alert the test to show a borderline result?  Lupus does not run in my family and I do not have joint problems or sensitivity to the sun.  I have to wait three more months before I can test again for lupus.  This is a long time for me to worry about this.  Can you please help me with some answers?  I really appreciate your time.  Thanks!!
Sincerely,
Karen  

Posted by CCF CARDIO MD - CRC on June 21, 1999 at 09:02:53
Dear Karen,
I suspect your doctors checked some of your blood clotting tests which can be sometimes affected by Lupus.  The coumadin must be out of your system for these results to be accurate.  I wouldn't spend too much time worrying about it right now it could all turn out to be within normal limits.
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