Antiphospholipid syndrome
Antiphospholipid syndrome is an autoimmune disease in which certain antibodies (lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin and anti-β2 glycoprotein I) increase the risk of clots in veins or arteries. It can also cause pregnancy loss. It may occur alone or together with lupus.
Common symptoms
- Thrombosis in the leg veins or pulmonary embolism
- Arterial thrombosis: heart attack or stroke
- Pregnancy loss or pre-eclampsia
- Net-like purplish skin (livedo)
How it is diagnosed
It requires a clinical event (thrombosis or pregnancy complication) and positive antibodies on two measurements at least 12 weeks apart.
Treatment
Anticoagulation is used, generally with warfarin, and in some cases aspirin. Heparin is used during pregnancy. Direct oral anticoagulants are not recommended in high-risk patients.
What you can do
- Have your INR checked and know your target
- Do not smoke and avoid oestrogen-containing contraceptives
- Plan pregnancy with your rheumatologist
- Tell health staff you are anticoagulated before any procedure
Seek care immediately if you have
- A swollen, hot and painful leg
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
- Weakness on one side of the body or difficulty speaking: go to the emergency department
- Heavy bleeding or black stools
Frequently asked questions
What is antiphospholipid syndrome?
Antiphospholipid syndrome is an autoimmune disease in which certain antibodies (lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin and anti-β2 glycoprotein I) increase the risk of clots in veins or arteries. It can also cause pregnancy loss. It may occur alone or together with lupus.
How is antiphospholipid syndrome diagnosed?
It requires a clinical event (thrombosis or pregnancy complication) and positive antibodies on two measurements at least 12 weeks apart.
How is antiphospholipid syndrome treated?
Anticoagulation is used, generally with warfarin, and in some cases aspirin. Heparin is used during pregnancy. Direct oral anticoagulants are not recommended in high-risk patients.
General information reviewed by Dr. Paul Alejandro Méndez Patarroyo, internist and rheumatologist, Colombian Medical Licence 79554568. It does not replace a medical consultation.