Apla syndrome, in Visit Clinic

Antiphospholipid antibody (APLA) syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies target phospholipid‑binding proteins (eg, β2‑glycoprotein I), causing increased risk of arterial and venous blood clots and pregnancy complications (recurrent miscarriage, stillbirth, preeclampsia). Diagnosis requires persistent positive tests (lupus anticoagulant, anti‑cardiolipin, anti‑β2‑glycoprotein I). Management includes anticoagulation (heparin, warfarin) and low‑dose aspirin during pregnancy.

APLA syndrome in pregnancy is managed with low‑dose aspirin plus prophylactic or therapeutic low‑molecular‑weight heparin depending on history (recurrent miscarriage vs prior thrombosis). Women with prior thrombosis need full anticoagulation during pregnancy and postpartum; those with pregnancy losses receive aspirin plus prophylactic LMWH. Care includes specialist obstetric and hematology input, close fetal surveillance, timing of anticoagulant around delivery, and postpartum anticoagulation for 6–12 weeks.

Antiphospholipid syndrome is caused primarily by autoantibodies (lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin, anti–beta2-glycoprotein I) that target phospholipid-binding proteins, promoting abnormal blood clotting and pregnancy complications. It can occur on its own (primary) or secondary to autoimmune diseases—most commonly systemic lupus erythematosus—or be triggered by infections, certain drugs, genetic predisposition, and inflammation.

Antiphospholipid syndrome is diagnosed by combining clinical criteria (vascular thrombosis or specified pregnancy complications) with laboratory confirmation of antiphospholipid antibodies. Tests include lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin (IgG/IgM), and anti‑β2 glycoprotein I (IgG/IgM), persistently positive on two occasions at least 12 weeks apart. Diagnosis also requires imaging to document thrombosis and exclusion of other causes.

No — antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APLA/APS) cannot be cured, but it is usually manageable. Treatment focuses on preventing clots and pregnancy complications with long‑term anticoagulation (e.g., warfarin), low‑dose aspirin, and heparin in pregnancy. Risk‑factor control, lifestyle changes, specialist follow‑up, and, in selected or severe cases, immunomodulatory drugs or hydroxychloroquine may be used.

The diagnosis of antiphospholipid antibody (APLA) syndrome requires ≥1 clinical event plus persistent antiphospholipid antibodies. Clinical criteri