antiphospholipid syndrome

It involves arterial or venous clotting or specific pregnancy complications, with laboratory evidence of anti-phospholipid antibodies. Autoantibodies, meaning produced and directed against one's self, are to plasma proteins (many:) altering normal clotting leading to thrombus (clot) and/or pregancy complications like fetal death, recurrent early pregnancy loss, eclampsia, and others.

One can inherit this syndrome, or it may arise without any apparent history or cause. It is associated with multiple medical problems, including recurrent pregnancy loss

It involves arterial or venous clotting or specific pregnancy complications, with laboratory evidence of anti-phospholipid antibodies. Autoantibodies, meaning produced and directed against one's self, are to plasma proteins (many:) altering normal clotting leading to thrombus (clot) and/or pregancy complications like fetal death, recurrent early pregnancy loss, eclampsia, and others.

Systemic lupus erythematosus, chronic/acute severe stress and genetic predisposition all conspire to lead to antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. This is a very rare but devastating disorder that can have horrible perinatal outcomes with each pregnancy. Considered an autoimmune disorder, APLS may have its etiological underpinnings in maternal-fetal cell trafficking, as most autoimmune conditions.

Can be controlled and any complications from APL be treated . Spontaneous remission s possible over time . Needs careful vigilance and follow up by Rheumatologist

The following published research article reported that 50% of the patients with APS had erectile dysfunction. http://lup.sagepub.com/content/21/3/319.abstract

If you get bad blood clots from antiphospholipid syndrome, treatment with Coumadin or another anticoagulant might be recommended.

AUTOIMMUNE means your body produces antibodies - cells that attack your own body. In antiphosopholipid syndrome the antibody which is made provokes blood clots (thrombosis) in both arteries and veins as well as pregnancy-related complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm delivery, or severe preeclampsia.

The manifestations of APS range from having no symptoms at all to catastrophic, disastrous clotting affecting multiple organs leading to death within days. Many will present with blood clots, some with skin changes, others with low platelets or women will have repeated spontaneous miscarriages. Another autoimmune disorder may also be diagnosed such as lupus erythematosus. See:http://www.apsfa.org/

Individuals with antiphospholipid syndrome may be at an increased risk of first trimester recurrent pregnancy loss. Treatments are available though to improve outcome. Make sure your ob or your fertility specialist knows so he/she can address appropriately.