Orthopedic involvement in antiphospholipid syndrome

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Orthopedics
• Autoimmunology

Background:

• Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune condition characterized by blood clots and pregnancy complications.
• Antiphospholipid antibodies are key diagnostic markers for APS.
• Orthopedic manifestations are increasingly recognized but often under-diagnosed in APS patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diverse orthopedic conditions associated with primary, secondary, and catastrophic Antiphospholipid syndrome.
• To increase awareness of the skeletal complications of APS among clinicians.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating orthopedic involvement in Antiphospholipid syndrome.
• Synthesis of findings on various orthopedic conditions linked to APS.

Main Results:

• APS is associated with osteonecrosis in both adult and pediatric populations.
• Bone marrow necrosis and nontraumatic fractures are other significant orthopedic complications of APS.
• The spectrum of orthopedic involvement in APS is broad and requires further investigation.

Conclusions:

• Orthopedic manifestations are a significant, albeit under-recognized, feature of Antiphospholipid syndrome.
• Early recognition and management of orthopedic complications are crucial for improving patient outcomes in APS.