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[Antiphospholipid syndrome and cardiovascular disease]
J I García Bolao1, I Iglesias, M L Fidalgo
1Departamento de Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona.
Revista De Medicina De La Universidad De Navarra
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) involves recurrent thrombosis and abortion, often linked to antiphospholipid antibodies. While not definitively linked to ischemic heart disease, in vitro studies suggest a potential association.
Area of Science:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Immunology
- Vascular medicine
Context:
- Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by recurrent thrombosis, abortion, and thrombocytopenia.
- Historically considered a manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus, APS is now recognized as an isolated autoimmune disease.
- The etiology of antiphospholipid antibodies is multifactorial, with proposed links to infectious and autoimmune conditions, as well as genetic factors.
Purpose:
- To summarize the key features and diagnostic approaches for antiphospholipid syndrome.
- To explore the potential association between antiphospholipid syndrome and ischemic heart disease.
Summary:
- APS typically presents with recurrent thrombosis, pregnancy loss, and low platelet counts, associated with antibodies against anionic phospholipids.
- Diagnostic methods include Radioimmunoassay (RIA) and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for anticardiolipin antibodies.
- Hypercoagulability and recurrent thrombosis are hallmarks of APS, with ischemic heart disease being a significant area of interest despite limited clinical evidence.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of recognizing APS as a distinct autoimmune entity.
- Underscores the need for further research into the link between APS and ischemic heart disease.
- Provides an overview of diagnostic tools for anticardiolipin antibodies.