The skin often provides initial clues of hypercoagulability with features such as livedo reticularis and racemosa, retiform purpura, necrosis and ulcerations. As these cutaneous manifestations are nonspecific, laboratory testing is often needed to evaluate for underlying causes of hypercoagulability. Importantly, these disorders are reported to be the most common mimicker resulting in erroneous diagnosis of pyoderma gangrenosum. Understanding inherent properties of and indications for available tests is necessary for appropriate ordering and interpretation of results. Additionally, ordering of these tests in an indiscriminate manner may lead to inaccurate results, complicating the interpretation and approach to management. The second article in this continuing medical education series summarizes information on methodology, test characteristics, and limitations of several in-vitro laboratory tests used for the workup of hypercoagulability and vasculopathic disease as it pertains to dermatologic disease.Copyright © 2021. Published by Elsevier Inc.
In-Vitro Diagnostics for the Medical Dermatologist: Part 2: Hypercoagulability Tests.
