Antiphospholipid antibodies and myocardial infarction

In prospective studies, increased levels of cardiolipin-biding antibodies and autoantibodies to oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) have been observed in patients with myocardial infarction (MI). These findings suggest that antiphospholipid antibodies may contribute to the development of MI. The 'oxidative-modification hypothesis' in the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic heart disease is based on the oxidation of LDL, its accumulation into arterial wall, and the development of chronic inflammation in the atheroma. Evidence of enhanced lipid peroxidation and its association with antiphospholipid antibodies has been recently reported in SLE patients. There is also epidemiological data showing a remarkably increased risk of MI in SLE. In this review, the role of different types of antiphospholipid antibodies in the development of atherosclerotic heart disease is evaluated with particular attention to their potential pathogenic mechanisms and the possibilities in the prevention of MI associated with antiphospholipid antibodies.