Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies that can cause arterial or venous thrombosis, obstetric complications, thrombocytopenia and other clinical manifestations.


Epidemiology:

Antiphospholipid syndrome can occur at any age, but is more common in young women. The prevalence in the general population is estimated at about 1%, whereas the prevalence in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus is 20-30%.


Etiopathogenesis:

The exact cause of antiphospholipid syndrome is unknown, but it is believed that the production of antiphospholipid antibodies is related to immune system dysfunction. Risk factors for antiphospholipid syndrome include infections, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, and genetic factors.


Diagnosis:

The diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome is based on the presence of clinical criteria and the detection of antiphospholipid antibodies. Clinical criteria include arterial or venous thrombosis, obstetric complications, thrombocytopenia and other clinical manifestations. Detection of antiphospholipid antibodies is performed by laboratory tests, such as the plasma dilution assay, the kaolin-cephalin coagulation test, and the partial thromboplastin time dilution test.


Treatment:

Treatment of antiphospholipid syndrome focuses on preventing thrombosis-related complications. Patients with antiphospholipid syndrome should receive lifelong anticoagulant therapy to prevent recurrence of thrombosis. Patients with obstetric complications may require treatment with aspirin and heparin during pregnancy.