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The antiphospholipid syndrome and infection
G N Dalekos1, K Zachou, C Liaskos
1Larisa Medical School, University of Thessaly, 22 Papakiriazi str., 412 22, Larisa, Greece. dalekos@ med.uth.gr
Current Rheumatology Reports
|July 27, 2001
Summary
Infections can trigger antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), but typically not cause clotting disorders in patients. Promptly treating infections may prevent severe antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) complications.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Infectious agents are linked to antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is noted for inducing autoimmune phenomena.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review aPL antibodies in infections.
- To assess the clinical significance of infection-associated aPL antibodies.
- To evaluate the relationship between HCV and APS.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on studies investigating infections and aPL antibodies.
- Analysis of data regarding thrombophilia in infection-associated aPL antibody presence.
- Examination of molecular mimicry as a potential mechanism in APS development.
Main Results:
- Thrombophilia is generally not observed in patients with infections, including HCV, as aPL antibodies are often nonpathogenic.
- HCV is not recommended for routine testing in APS patients.
- Infections can precipitate catastrophic APS, possibly through molecular mimicry.
Conclusions:
- Most infection-associated aPL antibodies lack clinical significance for thrombophilia.
- Early recognition and treatment of infections are crucial for preventing catastrophic APS.
- Further research into infection-triggered APS mechanisms is warranted.