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Activated Protein C Resistance in Behçet's Disease.
Summary
Activated protein C resistance (aPCR) is common in Behçet's disease (BD) patients, particularly those with a history of venous thrombosis. Detecting aPCR could help identify BD patients needing preventative anticoagulation.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Rheumatology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Behçet's disease (BD) is a multisystem inflammatory disorder associated with an increased risk of thrombosis.
- The underlying mechanisms predisposing BD patients to venous thromboembolism (VTE) are not fully understood.
- Activated protein C resistance (aPCR) is a known risk factor for VTE in the general population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of activated protein C resistance (aPCR) in patients with Behçet's disease (BD).
- To determine if aPCR is associated with a history of venous thrombosis in BD patients.
- To evaluate the potential of modified activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) as a screening tool for aPCR in BD.
Main Methods:
- A modified activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) assay was used to assess aPCR.
- The study included 32 patients diagnosed with Behçet's disease (BD).
- Nine healthy individuals served as controls.
Main Results:
- Activated protein C resistance (aPCR) was detected in 34.3% of BD patients, compared to 0% in healthy controls.
- The frequency of aPCR was higher in BD patients with a history of venous thrombosis (44.4%) versus those without (22.2%).
- The modified aPTT test effectively identified aPCR in the studied BD cohort.
Conclusions:
- Activated protein C resistance (aPCR) is a significant finding in Behçet's disease (BD) patients.
- aPCR may contribute to the predisposition of BD patients to venous thrombosis.
- Routine screening for aPCR using modified aPTT could aid in identifying BD patients requiring prophylactic anticoagulation.
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