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Antiphospholipid antibodies in pregnancy
M Birdsall1, N Pattison, L Chamley
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Women's Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand.
The Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Antiphospholipid antibodies are frequently found in women experiencing recurrent miscarriages, fetal deaths, and pregnancy complications. Testing for these antibodies is crucial for managing high-risk pregnancies.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Immunology
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Antiphospholipid antibodies (APLA) are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Understanding the prevalence of APLA in various pregnancy complications is essential for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between antiphospholipid antibodies and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- To determine the incidence of APLA in women with recurrent miscarriage, fetal death, and other pregnancy complications.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving women with a history of recurrent miscarriages, fetal deaths, poor obstetric history, or systemic lupus erythematosus.
- Detection of antiphospholipid antibodies in the study population.
Main Results:
- Antiphospholipid antibodies were detected in 41% of women with recurrent miscarriages.
- APLA were found in 29% of women with a history of fetal death and 69% with systemic lupus erythematosus.
- A high incidence of APLA was observed in complicated pregnancies.
Conclusions:
- Antiphospholipid antibodies are prevalent in women with complicated pregnancies.
- Testing for APLA is recommended for patients with specific pregnancy disorders.
- Early detection of APLA can inform treatment strategies and mitigate fetal risks.