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Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Rare Cause of Acute Heart Failure
Emad Elmusa1, Muhammad Waleed Raza1, Ahmad Muneeb1
1Internal Medicine, Hospital Corporation of America Florida (HCA FL) Orange Park Hospital, Orange Park, USA.
Insights
Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS), a rare condition causing widespread clotting and organ failure, can lead to acute heart failure. Early diagnosis and triple therapy improved a patient's cardiac function and multi-organ failure.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Rheumatology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) is a rare, severe manifestation of antiphospholipid syndrome (APLS).
- CAPS is characterized by widespread microvascular thrombosis, leading to rapid multi-organ failure.
- Acute heart failure is a critical complication of CAPS.
Abstract:
Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) is a rare variant of antiphospholipid syndrome (APLS). CAPS is a syndrome characterized by microvascular thrombosis leading to multi-organ failure, including acute heart failure. Diagnosis is challenging, and disease progression is rapid. Treatment includes triple therapy with anticoagulation, glucocorticoids, and plasma exchange. We present a case of a patient with CAPS who developed de novo acute heart failure. With treatment, the patient's multi-organ failure improved, including cardiac function. It is our goal to present this case in order to facilitate greater diagnostic suspicion and the early treatment of CAPS to reduce morbidity and mortality.
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