Antiphospholipid syndrome: review

South Med J. 2005 Jun;98(6):617-25; quiz 626-7, 645. doi: 10.1097/01.smj.0000166748.90089.65.

Abstract

Antiphospholipid syndrome spans many medical disciplines. Classic criteria include the presence of anticardiolipin antibody or lupus anticoagulant with typical complications of thrombosis or pregnancy loss. Other common associated manifestations include livedo reticularis, thrombocytopenia, valvular heart disease, and nephropathy with renal insufficiency, hypertension, and proteinuria. Treatment of serious complications with anticoagulation is standard; generally warfarin for thrombosis and aspirin/heparin for pregnancy prophylaxis. Detailed recommendations regarding precise intensity and duration of anticoagulation are still a subject of debate.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Antiphospholipid / analysis
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome / complications
  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lupus Coagulation Inhibitor / analysis
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications
  • Pregnancy Outcome

Substances

  • Antibodies, Antiphospholipid
  • Anticoagulants
  • Lupus Coagulation Inhibitor