متلازمة أضداد الشحوم الفسفورية (Antiphospholipid syndrome)

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Antiphospholipid syndrome

 

(Diseases)   

On this page,you will find everything youneed toknow aboutAntiphospholipid Syndrome. 

 

What is Antiphospholipid Syndrome? 

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), also known as Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome, is an autoimmune disorder in which the body produces antibodies that target phospholipids, an essential component of cell membranes. These antibodies interfere with the normal blood clotting process, increasing the risk of thrombosis in veins or arteries, and may lead to strokes. This condition poses particular risks for pregnant women, as it can cause complications such as high blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia), placental insufficiency, recurrent miscarriages, and preterm birth. 

  • What are the symptoms of Antiphospholipid Syndrome? 
  • The following are general symptoms that may be caused by other conditions as well and are not necessarily indicative of APS: 
  • High blood pressure 
  • Recurrent headaches or migraines 
  • Fatigue and exhaustion 
  • Vision problems, such as double vision 
  • Blood vessel blockages in the kidneys or lungs 
  • Arterial clots that may lead to a stroke or a heart attack 
  • Venous clots, commonly in the leg (deep vein thrombosis) or pulmonary artery (pulmonary embolism), as well as in other veins such as cerebral, splenic, mesenteric, hepatic, portal, inferior vena cava, and renal veins 

 

Pregnancy complications like recurrent miscarriage, preterm birth, or intrauterine fetal death 

Anemia and low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) 

 

What causes Antiphospholipid Syndrome? 

 

APS is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues instead of protecting them. In this case, the immune system produces abnormal antibodies known as “antiphospholipid antibodies,” which target proteins bound to fat molecules (phospholipids). These antibodies increase the likelihood of abnormal blood clotting. 

Although the exact cause of producing these abnormal antibodies is unknown, it is believed that factors such as genetics, hormones, and environmental triggers play a role in its development, similar to other autoimmune diseases. 

  • How is Antiphospholipid Syndrome diagnosed? 

Diagnosis usually begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Additional tests may be requested, including: 

Blood tests to detect antiphospholipid antibodies 

If blood tests indicate APS, the medical history is reviewed carefully to identify any past symptoms associated with the syndrome 

A confirmed diagnosis typically requires the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies along with at least one of the following clinical conditions, such as the occurrence of one or more blood clots: 

One or more unexplained miscarriages after the 10th week of pregnancy 

  • Preterm delivery before the 34th week due to complications such as preeclampsia or poor placental blood flow 
  • Three or more consecutive unexplained miscarriages before the 10th week 

 

Additional tests may include: 

Coagulation tests to evaluate blood clotting function 

Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, to confirm the presence of blood clots 

 

How is Antiphospholipid Syndrome treated? 

The risk of developing blood clots can be reduced with the use of anticoagulant medications such as warfarin or antiplatelet drugs like low-dose aspirin. 

  • In cases where blood clots have already formed or symptoms are severe, injectable anticoagulants such as heparin may be prescribed. 
  • How can Antiphospholipid Syndrome be prevented? 
  • Since APS is an autoimmune disease, there is no known way to prevent it. However, the risk of complications and clots can be reduced by: 
  • Adhering to prescribed anticoagulants such as warfarin or heparin 
  • Taking low-dose aspirin if recommended by a doctor, especially during pregnancy or for stroke prevention 
  • Quitting smoking 
  • Engaging in regular physical activity 
  • Following a healthy diet rich in fiber (vegetables and fruits), and low in fat and sugar 
  • Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce pressure on the circulation 
  • Managing other autoimmune diseases like lupus to prevent APS flare-ups 

 

Monitoring health conditions that increase clotting risk, such as hypertension, diabetes, and lipid disorders 

  • Consulting a physician before planning a pregnancy helps reduce potential complications 
  • What are the complications of Antiphospholipid Syndrome? 

 

 

Pulmonary embolism from clots in the lungs 

  • Recurrent miscarriages 
  • Association with other autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis 
  • When should you see a doctor? 
  • If you experience symptoms of clotting (pain or swelling in the leg, chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headaches, or vision problems) 
  • If you have a personal or family history of thrombosis, stroke, or heart attack 

 

If you’ve had recurrent miscarriages or preterm births due to pregnancy complications 

If you are pregnant and experiencing complications like recurrent miscarriage or premature delivery (before 34 weeks) 

If you have been diagnosed with APS, regular follow-ups and blood tests8are essential to monitor the condition and prevent further clot complications. 

 

 

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