How frequently antiphospholipid syndrome occurs is not yet known. Antiphospholipid antibodies can be found in as many as 50% of people with lupus and in 1-5% of the rest of the population. Antiphospholipid syndrome most commonly occurs in young to middle-aged adults, but it can begin at any age.
Symptoms
Along with the antiphospholipid antibodies, the body begins producing blood clots. The blood clots can block arteries and veins and thus cut off blood supply to a part of the body. The symptoms the individual experiences come from the effects of the blood clots:
- Veins or arteries of the arms or legs - may cause pain, numbness, tingling in the hands or feet, or leg ulcers. If the blood supply was completely cut off to a part, such as a toe, the individual could lose the toe.
- Arteries of the heart - may cause chest pain or heart attack. The individual may also have a heart murmur or heart valve problems.
- Blood vessels of the skin - may cause painful bruises (purpura) or a condition called livedo reticularis.
- Blood vessels of the brain - if a clot cuts off blood supply to a part of the brain, this causes a stroke. An individual with APS may also experience migraine headaches or seizures.
- Placenta during pregnancy - Women with APS may have frequent miscarriages or premature births.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome is based on the symptoms present and laboratory tests. If an individual has had blood clots in the legs, for example, without any other possible cause, APS may be present. A test for anticardiolipin antibodies can help confirm the diagnosis. Other abnormal test results, such as decreased platelets or anemia, may be present. A computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can confirm the presence of blood clots.
Treatment
Treatment for antiphospholipid syndrome is based on the individual's symptoms. Catastrophic APS often requires hospitalization. Individuals with APS may be started on daily low-dose aspirin to help reduce the risk of blood clots. If a blood clot is discovered, anticoagulant medication such as warfarin (Coumadin) or enoxaparin (Lovenox) is given.
With medication and lifestyle modifications (such as avoiding long periods of inactivity in which clots can form in the legs), most people with primary antiphospholipid syndrome lead normal, healthy lives. Those who have secondary APS may have additional problems due to their underlying rheumatic or autoimmune conditions.
Information for this article was taken from:
Carsons, S., & Belilos, E. (2004). Antiphospholipid syndrome. eMedicine, accessed at http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic2923.htm
