Antiphospholipid Syndrome and the Kidney

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Nephrology
• Immunology

Background:

• Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder causing thrombosis and pregnancy complications.
• APS can be primary or secondary to other autoimmune diseases, notably systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• A significant overlap exists between SLE and APS, with 40% of SLE patients having antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review renal manifestations in SLE patients with aPL.
• To discuss the impact of aPL on kidney disease in SLE.
• To highlight the importance of differentiating inflammatory from thrombotic kidney lesions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of renal manifestations in APS and SLE.
• Analysis of the role of aPL in lupus nephritis.
• Discussion of aPL's impact on end-stage renal disease and pregnancy in SLE.

Main Results:

• APS is characterized by thrombosis, pregnancy morbidity, and aPL.
• SLE patients with aPL face specific renal challenges.
• Distinguishing thrombotic from inflammatory kidney damage is vital for treatment.

Conclusions:

• Renal involvement in SLE patients with aPL requires careful evaluation.
• aPL significantly influences the course of lupus nephritis and other renal outcomes.
• Therapeutic strategies must consider both autoimmune and thrombotic aspects.