Antiphospholipid syndrome and cancer
Eyal Reinstein1, Yehuda Shoenfeld
1Department of Internal Medicine B and Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer 52621, Israel. eyalre@post.tau.ac.il
Clinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology
|October 6, 2007
Summary
Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are linked to cancer, prompting investigations into their role. Research continues to explore the connection between antiphospholipid syndrome, aPL, and malignancies for better understanding and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Thrombosis is a significant complication in cancer patients, contributing to morbidity and mortality.
- The relationship between antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and cancer has been a focus of research.
- Elevated aPL levels are observed in various malignancies, but their direct pathogenicity remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and cancer.
- To explore the diagnostic and prognostic implications of aPL in patients with malignancies.
- To understand the pathological significance of aPL in the context of cancer.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on aPL and cancer.
- Analysis of studies reporting aPL prevalence in cancer patients.
- Evaluation of research on aPL levels and their correlation with cancer outcomes.
Main Results:
- Increased prevalence of certain cancers in aPL-positive individuals.
- Elevated aPL levels are frequently reported in patients with various malignancies.
- The pathogenicity and clinical significance of aPL in cancer patients require further elucidation.
Conclusions:
- The association between antiphospholipid antibodies and cancer warrants continued investigation.
- Understanding this link may impact the management of both antiphospholipid syndrome and cancer.
- Further research is crucial to clarify the role of aPL in cancer-associated thrombosis and progression.
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