Systemic antiphospholipid syndrome and atherosclerosis.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Atherosclerosis (AT) is a systemic inflammatory disease involving altered lipoprotein metabolism and arterial narrowing.
• Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder marked by a thrombophilic state and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL).
• Both AT and APS involve immune system activation, with shared pathogenic mechanisms like oxidative stress and immune cell involvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the association between Atherosclerosis and Antiphospholipid Syndrome.
• To identify common immunological and pathological pathways in both diseases.
• To highlight the potential of premature AT as an indicator of APS.

Main Methods:

• Review of experimental studies and human observations linking APS and AT.
• Analysis of common immunological markers such as anti-oxLDL, anti-aPL, anti-beta2GPI, and anti-HSP antibodies.
• Examination of shared pathophysiological findings including endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and immune cell activation.

Main Results:

• Patients with APS and AT share common immune responses and pathogenic mechanisms.
• Premature AT can manifest as an initial symptom of APS.
• Asymptomatic AT is observed in APS patients, and aPLs may predict stroke risk in women.

Conclusions:

• Atherosclerosis is a key feature of systemic APS, indicating a strong link between the two conditions.
• The shared pathogenesis presents opportunities for novel therapeutic strategies.
• Understanding this association is crucial for managing patients with either condition.