Pathological gambling and primary antiphospholipid (Hughes) syndrome: a unique neuropsychiatric association

Sm Barros1, Jf de Carvalho

  • 1Department of Rheumatology, Naval Hospital Marcílio Dias, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.

Lupus
|May 12, 2011
PubMed

Insights

This study highlights a rare association between antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and pathological gambling, an impulse control disorder. It presents a case study and reviews diagnosis and treatment for this unique APS subtype.

Area of Science:

  • Rheumatology
  • Neurology
  • Psychiatry

Background:

  • Neuropsychiatric conditions are frequently observed in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
  • Commonly reported neuropsychiatric manifestations include memory deficits, cognitive impairment, mood disorders (depression, anxiety), mania, and psychosis.
  • These symptoms can precede the diagnosis of primary APS.

Observation:

  • This study presents the first reported cases of primary or secondary APS associated with habit or impulse control disorders.
  • A specific case of a 53-year-old male with a 20-year history of pathological gambling and APS is detailed.

Findings:

  • The case illustrates a significant link between antiphospholipid syndrome and pathological gambling, a type of impulse control disorder.
  • The study reviews the diagnostic criteria and treatment strategies for patients presenting with this specific subtype of impulse disorder in the context of APS.

Implications:

  • This research expands the understanding of the diverse neuropsychiatric manifestations of APS.
  • It underscores the importance of considering impulse control disorders in the differential diagnosis of APS patients.
  • Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms and optimal management of APS-associated impulse control disorders.

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