A systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies that increase the risk of blood clots and other complications.
graph LR
Deep_Vein_Thrombosis["Deep Vein Thrombosis"]
Stroke["Stroke"]
Pulmonary_Embolism["Pulmonary Embolism"]
Deep_Vein_Thrombosis --> Pulmonary_Embolism
Deep_Vein_Thrombosis --> Stroke
style Deep_Vein_Thrombosis fill:#fef3c7
style Stroke fill:#fef3c7
style Pulmonary_Embolism fill:#fef3c7
name: Antiphospholipid Syndrome
creation_date: '2025-12-04T16:57:31Z'
updated_date: '2026-02-16T20:19:38Z'
description: A systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies that increase the risk of blood clots and other complications.
category: Complex
parents:
- Autoimmune Disease
has_subtypes:
- name: Primary APS
description: occurs in the absence of any other related disease
evidence:
- reference: PMID:16338214
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: the condition can exist on its own. APS appears to represent a clinical spectrum, both in terms of APS features and the presence of other autoimmune conditions. The clinical and serological characteristics of 'primary' APS (PAPS) are similar to those of secondary APS, although the clinical features are more commonly recognised in the presence of another autoimmune or inflammatory condition.
explanation: The passage supports the statement by indicating that APS can exist on its own without other related diseases, defining it as primary APS (PAPS).
- reference: PMID:27550302
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: APS can be isolated (primary APS) or associated with other autoimmune diseases.
explanation: This snippet reinforces that APS can exist independently as primary APS.
- name: Secondary APS
description: occurs with other autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus
evidence:
- reference: PMID:11014973
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: APS may be associated with another autoimmune disease (secondary APS), particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
explanation: This reference states that APS can occur with other autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus, which supports the statement regarding the subtype Secondary APS.
- reference: PMID:15507265
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Primary utilized when there is no associated disorder, secondary with an associated autoimmune disorder such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
explanation: This reference explains that secondary APS is associated with another autoimmune disorder, specifically mentioning systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), thus supporting the statement.
- reference: PMID:19593144
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Although originally described in the context of systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid syndrome was then recognized as a primary antiphospholipid syndrome without any underlying autoimmune disease in almost half of the cases.
explanation: This reference provides context for primary APS being without other autoimmune diseases and implies that secondary APS, in contrast, involves other autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus.
- reference: PMID:35896399
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and secondary anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS II) can cause increased morbidity and mortality of the fetus.
explanation: This article mentions secondary antiphospholipid syndrome in conjunction with systemic lupus erythematosus, supporting the existence of Secondary APS as a subtype of APS.
- reference: PMID:10866096
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: We retrospectively studied patients with APS and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)...39 patients had primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) and 69 secondary antiphospholipid syndrome (SAPS).
explanation: This article gives data on secondary APS occurring along with systemic lupus erythematosus, thus supporting the statement about the existence of the Secondary APS subtype.
- reference: PMID:26939208
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: 'BACKGROUND: The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is one of the most encountered autoimmunity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and pathogenesis of these two seems to be intricate'
explanation: This article states that APS is common in SLE patients, indicating the close relationship between APS and SLE and supporting the subtype of Secondary APS.
- name: Asymptomatic APS
description: individuals with antiphospholipid antibodies but no clinical symptoms
evidence:
- reference: PMID:17145604
supports: PARTIAL
snippet: Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) are increasingly being recognized in children. Transient non-pathogenic aPL are often seen after childhood infections, while thrombotic events seem rare in those with true aPL.
explanation: The reference supports the existence of individuals with antiphospholipid antibodies but no clinical symptoms, which align with the description of Asymptomatic APS.
prevalence:
- subtype: Primary APS
population: Global
percentage: 0.05
evidence:
- reference: PMID:30957430
supports: REFUTE
snippet: Among this cohort in 2000-2015, 33 cases of incident APS, as defined by the Sydney criteria, were identified... The estimated prevalence of APS was 50 (95% CI 42-58) per 100,000 population, and was similar in both sexes.
explanation: The prevalence of APS is reported as 50 per 100,000 population, which translates to 0.05%. However, this value is for all types of APS, not exclusively primary APS.
- reference: PMID:31951187
supports: NO_EVIDENCE
snippet: 28.4% of patients had primary while, 71.6% of patients had secondary APS.
explanation: The study notes that 28.4% of the cohort had primary APS, reaffirming the overall distribution of APS cases. Although it does not directly state the global prevalence per 100,000, it supports the distinction between primary and secondary APS.
progression:
- phase: Onset
subtype: Primary APS
age_range: 20-50
evidence:
- reference: PMID:34634966
supports: PARTIAL
snippet: 'We subdivided patients into two groups: youth- (15-24 years) and adult-onset (over 24 years) and compared them regarding demographic characteristics, criteria and non-criteria manifestations, cardiovascular risk factors, and aPL status.'
explanation: The reference supports that primary APS can indeed onset within the specified age range of 20-50, but it does not provide sufficient evidence to conclude that progression specifically occurs within this exact range.
- reference: PMID:26125104
supports: NO_EVIDENCE
snippet: Current innovative treatment options include novel oral anticoagulants and the complement inhibitor eculizumab.
explanation: While discussing treatment options for APS, this reference does not address the specific age range of 20-50 or the progression of primary APS.
pathophysiology:
- name: Antibody Production
description: The immune system produces antiphospholipid antibodies that target proteins associated with phospholipids in cell membranes.
cell_types:
- preferred_term: B cell
term:
id: CL:0000236
label: B cell
- preferred_term: T cell
term:
id: CL:0000084
label: T cell
evidence:
- reference: PMID:29867951
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: The primary anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS) is characterized by the production of antibodies that bind the phospholipid-binding protein beta2 glycoprotein I (beta2GPI) or that directly recognize negatively charged membrane phospholipids.
explanation: This reference supports the statement by describing how the immune system produces antibodies that target phospholipid-associated proteins in cell membranes, a process involving the participation of both B cells and other immune cells.
- reference: PMID:30864219
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are pathogenic autoantibodies in antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). ... In PAPS and SLE/APS patients, Th2, Th17, and plasmablasts were increased while regulatory T, memory B, and regulatory B cells were decreased compared to healthy controls.
explanation: This reference supports the statement by noting the involvement of T and B cells in the production of antiphospholipid antibodies, which are pathogenic in APS.
- reference: PMID:33722752
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: It is now widely accepted that antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) have direct pathogenic effects and that B cells, notably through aPL production, play a key role in the development of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
explanation: This reference further strengthens the support by indicating B cells' key role in the production of antiphospholipid antibodies in APS.
- reference: PMID:8968222
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Antiphospholipid antibodies are a heterogeneous group of antibodies with varying specificities. ... There are numerous potential links between antiphospholipid antibodies and coagulation disorders, including interaction of antiphospholipid antibodies and a cofactor, beta 2-glycoprotein I.
explanation: This reference supports the involvement of immune-produced antiphospholipid antibodies in APS and their interaction with cell membrane proteins.
- reference: PMID:22055541
supports: PARTIAL
snippet: Diverse experimental evidence exists implicating the activation of various different cell surface receptors and intracellular pathways by antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL).
explanation: This reference discusses the cellular mechanisms activated by antiphospholipid antibodies, supporting the role of B and T cells in APS.
- name: Blood Clot Formation
description: Antiphospholipid antibodies increase the risk of forming clots in both arteries and veins, affecting blood flow.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:22100379
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Antiphospholipids are a heterogeneous group of circulating autoantibodies associated with a risk of thrombosis and can paradoxically prolong in vitro the clotting times
explanation: This reference highlights the association of antiphospholipid antibodies with thrombosis risk, supporting the statement that they increase the risk of forming clots.
- reference: PMID:8968222
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: It is clear that antiphospholipid antibodies are associated with an immune-mediated prothrombotic state.
explanation: This reference explains that antiphospholipid antibodies are linked to a prothrombotic state, indicating an increased risk of clots in both arteries and veins.
- reference: PMID:29867951
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: The primary anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS) is characterized by the production of antibodies that... may contribute to arterial or venous thrombosis.
explanation: This reference supports the statement by elaborating on the role of antibodies in arterial and venous thrombosis.
- reference: PMID:12848964
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Despite the strong association between antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and thrombosis, the pathogenic role of aPL in the development of thrombosis has not been fully elucidated.
explanation: Although it acknowledges the mechanisms are not fully understood, it confirms the strong association between antiphospholipid antibodies and thrombosis.
- reference: PMID:24321419
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is associated with the risk of both arterial and venous thrombosis.
explanation: This directly supports the statement by indicating that APS is associated with both arterial and venous thrombosis.
- name: Impaired Blood Flow
description: Blood clots obstruct normal blood flow, leading to complications depending on the clot's location in the body.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:29339317
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune condition characterized by the occurrence of recurrent arterial and/or venous thrombosis
explanation: The literature supports that APS is characterized by thrombosis, which aligns with blood clots obstructing normal blood flow.
- reference: PMID:33878780
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: aPL induce excessive activation of the endothelium, monocytes, and platelets in consort with aberrations in hemostasis/clotting, fibrinolytic system, and complement activation.
explanation: The mechanism by which antiphospholipid antibodies induce thrombosis directly aligns with the provided statement.
- reference: PMID:33341301
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Thrombotic Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) is a condition affecting young individuals in whom a thromboembolic event occurs in the presence of circulating antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL).
explanation: The thromboembolic events described are consistent with blood clots obstructing normal blood flow.
- reference: PMID:21047408
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: APLS comprises clinical features such as arterial or venous thromboses, valve disease, coronary artery disease, intracardiac thrombus formation, pulmonary hypertension and dilated cardiomyopathy.
explanation: Various cardiovascular complications consistent with blood clots obstructing blood flow are described.
- name: Organ Damage
locations:
- preferred_term: brain
term:
id: UBERON:0000955
label: brain
- preferred_term: kidneys
term:
id: UBERON:0002113
label: kidney
- preferred_term: lungs
term:
id: UBERON:0002048
label: lung
description: Clots in vital organs can impair function and cause significant damage.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:22247356
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: After a mean followup of 7.55 years, 29% of patients experienced organ damage and 5 died... Neurologic damage is the most common cause of morbidity.
explanation: The study details the incidence of organ damage in patients with APS, supporting the statement that clots in vital organs can impair function and cause significant damage.
- reference: PMID:27198137
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: The kidney is a major target organ in both primary and secondary antiphospholipid syndrome... APSN is a vascular nephropathy characterized by small vessel vaso-occlusive lesions.
explanation: This reference supports the statement by explaining APS-induced damage in the kidneys through vascular blockage.
- reference: PMID:24741580
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Typically, neurological manifestations of APS include thrombosis of cerebral vessels leading to stroke.
explanation: This reference provides evidence of brain damage caused by APS-induced clots, corroborating the statement.
- reference: PMID:36575066
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Venous thromboembolism belongs to the most frequent clinical manifestation of this syndrome... we summarised basic pathophysiological mechanisms of venous thrombosis and lung embolism development.
explanation: This reference supports the statement by discussing lung damage caused by clots in patients with APS.
- reference: PMID:8968222
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Patients with the highest titers of IgG antiphospholipid antibodies have a relatively high risk of recurrent thrombotic events, especially stroke, deep venous thrombosis, and spontaneous abortion.
explanation: The mention of recurrent thrombotic events leading to stroke helps substantiate the role of APS in causing significant organ damage, especially in the brain.
- name: Pregnancy Complications
description: In pregnant women, APS can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, and pre-eclampsia due to poor placental blood flow.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:19665761
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Women with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are at high risk for recurrent spontaneous miscarriage and late pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia and preterm labor.
explanation: The literature mentions APS causing recurrent miscarriage and late pregnancy complications including preeclampsia.
- reference: PMID:20822807
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: The antiphospholipid syndrome causes venous, arterial, and small-vessel thrombosis; pregnancy loss; and preterm delivery for patients with severe pre-eclampsia or placental insufficiency.
explanation: The article explicitly states that APS causes pregnancy loss and preterm delivery related to severe pre-eclampsia or placental insufficiency.
- reference: PMID:19557318
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: In pregnant women, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia, fetal intrauterine growth restriction, and other complications related to uteroplacental insufficiency.
explanation: This reference directly supports the statement by associating APS with preeclampsia and placental blood flow issues leading to complications.
- reference: PMID:17499708
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is frequently associated with complications during pregnancy... prematurity, intrauterine growth retardation, pregnancy-induced hypertensive disorders, and pulmonary hypertension can complicate pregnancy as well.
explanation: The reference lists various pregnancy complications associated with APS, such as prematurity and hypertensive disorders.
- reference: PMID:22784367
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: In patients with the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), the presence of a group of pathogenic autoantibodies called antiphospholipid antibodies causes arteriovenous thrombosis and pregnancy complications.
explanation: The literature points out that antiphospholipid antibodies cause pregnancy complications in APS, supporting the mechanisms described in the statement.
- name: Chronic Complications
description: Persistent clotting episodes can lead to long-term damage to the affected organs.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:38368768
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: APS patients had a higher frequency of damage accrual. Microangiopathy and non-criteria manifestations were independent risk factors for damage accrual.
explanation: The study found that APS patients had a higher frequency of organ damage, supporting the statement that persistent clotting episodes can lead to long-term damage.
- reference: PMID:28572466
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: A high proportion of patients experienced new thrombotic events and organ damage.
explanation: This study also confirms that patients with APS often experience organ damage due to thromboses, supporting the statement.
- reference: PMID:22247356
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: After a mean followup of 7.55 years, 29% of patients experienced organ damage and 5 died.
explanation: This study describes morbidity, organ damage, and mortality in APS patients, confirming the association between persistent clotting episodes and long-term organ damage.
phenotypes:
- category: Thrombosis
name: Deep Vein Thrombosis
frequency: FREQUENT
diagnostic: true
sequelae:
- target: Pulmonary Embolism
- target: Stroke
evidence:
- reference: PMID:36575066
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Venous thromboembolism belongs to the most frequent clinical manifestation of this syndrome.
explanation: The reference mentions that venous thromboembolism, which includes deep vein thrombosis, is a frequent manifestation in Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS).
- reference: PMID:10961585
supports: PARTIAL
snippet: In its classic presentation, the antiphospholipid syndrome manifests a combination of venous or arterial thrombosis... The manifestations often include a moderate thrombocytopenia and, less commonly, hemolysis.
explanation: While it confirms the presence of venous thrombosis, including potential complications like stroke, it does not definitively confirm deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism as common sequelae in all cases.
- reference: PMID:12627666
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: The relative frequency of ACLAs in association with arterial and venous thrombosis strongly suggests that they should be looked for in any individual with unexplained thrombosis; all three idiotypes (IgG, IgA, and IgM) should be assessed.
explanation: Venous thrombosis, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, is frequently observed in APS.
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Deep Vein Thrombosis
term:
id: HP:0004850
label: Recurrent deep vein thrombosis
- category: Pregnancy-Related
name: Preterm Birth
context: Pregnancy
evidence:
- reference: PMID:26815583
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Obstetric morbidity includes recurrent first trimester loss, stillbirth, intrauterine death, preeclam-psia, premature birth and fetal growth restriction
explanation: The reference lists premature birth (preterm birth) as a form of obstetric morbidity associated with APS, supporting its categorization as a pregnancy-related phenotype.
- reference: PMID:36756665
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: The pregnancy outcomes were not significantly different between NC-OAPS and OAPS groups.
explanation: The evidence suggests that patients with APS (OAPS) can experience similar pregnancy outcomes to those without the specific criteria of classical APS, which includes preterm birth.
- reference: PMID:34280554
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Patients with lupus anticoagulant positivity had an increased risk of preeclampsia (OR 2.10, p = 0.02, I2 = 48%), SGA (OR 1.78, p < 0.01, I2 = 0%) and preterm birth (OR 3.56, p = 0.01, I2 = 48%)
explanation: The meta-analysis found that APS patients, especially those with lupus anticoagulant positivity, have an increased risk of preterm birth, supporting the statement that APS phenotypes include pregnancy-related complications such as preterm birth.
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Preterm Birth
term:
id: HP:0001622
label: Premature birth
- category: Hematologic
name: Thrombocytopenia
evidence:
- reference: PMID:8952756
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: a variable degree of thrombocytopenia occurs in approximately 20-40% of the patients with APS
explanation: Thrombocytopenia is a hematologic phenotype observed in APS patients.
- reference: PMID:21303834
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: This article summarizes the studies analyzed on thrombocytopenia and skin manifestations
explanation: Thrombocytopenia is mentioned as a manifestation studied in APS.
- reference: PMID:29316193
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Thrombocytopenia is the most common non-criteria hematological feature in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
explanation: Thrombocytopenia is a significant hematologic feature observed in APS.
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Thrombocytopenia
term:
id: HP:0001873
label: Thrombocytopenia
- category: Cardiovascular
name: Cardiac Valve Disease
evidence:
- reference: PMID:17916990
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Valvular involvement is the most common manifestation with a prevalence of 82% detected by transesophageal echocardiography. Symmetrical, nodular thickening of the mitral and/or aortic valves is characteristic.
explanation: This reference indicates that cardiac valve disease, specifically valvular involvement, is a common manifestation in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
- reference: PMID:10852159
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Cardiac valve diseases and antiphospholipid syndrome.
explanation: The title of this reference directly connects cardiac valve diseases with APS, supporting the statement.
- reference: PMID:1733383
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Valvular involvement is frequently found in patients with the primary antiphospholipid syndrome.
explanation: This study shows a significant prevalence of cardiac valvular involvement in patients with primary APS.
- reference: PMID:30614053
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Most commonly mitral valve is affected followed by aortic and then tricuspid valve.
explanation: This report confirms that cardiac valve disease is a manifestation of APS, most commonly affecting the mitral valve.
- reference: PMID:1442504
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: The earliest reports were of valvular disease, including verrucous endocarditis, as well as valvular thickening and insufficiency.
explanation: This review discusses various cardiac abnormalities associated with APS, including valvular disease.
- category: Pregnancy-Related
context: Pregnancy
frequency: OCCASIONAL
name: Preeclampsia
evidence:
- reference: PMID:26815583
supports: PARTIAL
snippet: Obstetric morbidity includes recurrent first trimester loss, stillbirth, intrauterine death, preeclam-psia, premature birth and fetal growth restriction
explanation: The literature supports the association of antiphospholipid syndrome with preeclampsia, but it does not specify that the frequency is 'occasional'.
- reference: PMID:32413497
supports: PARTIAL
snippet: Its major presentations are thrombotic (arterial, venous, or microvascular) and pregnancy morbidity (miscarriages, late intrauterine fetal demise, and severe pre-eclampsia).
explanation: The literature supports the association of antiphospholipid syndrome with preeclampsia, but it does not specify that the frequency is 'occasional'.
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Preeclampsia
term:
id: MONDO:0005081
label: preeclampsia
- category: Hematologic
frequency: FREQUENT
name: Thrombocytopenia
evidence:
- reference: PMID:35536236
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Thrombocytopenia, a frequent clinical manifestation in patients with APS, could be an independent predictor of recurrent thrombotic, obstetric and severe extracriteria events.
explanation: The study indicates thrombocytopenia is a frequent clinical manifestation in patients with primary APS.
- reference: PMID:17426356
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Other features include recurrent miscarriage, thrombocytopenia, and livedo reticularis.
explanation: Thrombocytopenia is mentioned as a clinical feature of APS, supporting its frequent occurrence.
- reference: PMID:18417261
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Thrombocytopenia is frequently found in APS patients, its incidence has ranged from 22-42% in different series.
explanation: The incidence range of 22-42% indicates that thrombocytopenia is a frequent hematologic manifestation in APS patients.
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Thrombocytopenia
term:
id: HP:0001873
label: Thrombocytopenia
- category: Cardiovascular
frequency: OCCASIONAL
name: Cardiac Valve Disease
evidence:
- reference: PMID:23456852
supports: REFUTE
snippet: Heart valve disease (HVD) is the most frequent cardiac manifestation in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), with prevalence of 30 %.
explanation: The literature states that heart valve disease is the most frequent cardiac manifestation in APS, not an occasional occurrence.
- reference: PMID:1733383
supports: REFUTE
snippet: Valvular involvement is frequently found in patients with the primary antiphospholipid syndrome.
explanation: The literature indicates that valvular involvement is frequently found, contradicting the statement that it is occasional.
- reference: PMID:12402416
supports: REFUTE
snippet: The valvulopathy in APS is quite common and may lead to valve replacement.
explanation: The literature describes valvulopathy in APS as quite common, not occasional.
- category: Dermatologic
frequency: OCCASIONAL
name: Livedo Reticularis
evidence:
- reference: PMID:26223086
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Livedo reticularis is a common cutaneous manifestation of APS and may be a prognostic marker of more severe disease.
explanation: This reference states that livedo reticularis is a common cutaneous manifestation of APS, supporting its categorization as a dermatologic manifestation.
- reference: PMID:9204065
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Cutaneous manifestations may occur as the first sign of antiphospholipid syndrome. These include livedo reticularis...
explanation: This reference confirms that livedo reticularis is one of the cutaneous manifestations of APS.
- reference: PMID:35697016
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: This cross-sectional analysis of a large cohort of Serbian PAPS patients confirmed a strong relationship between livedo reticularis and arterial thrombosis...
explanation: This reference supports the association of livedo reticularis with APS, indicating its presence in patients with the syndrome.
- reference: PMID:36112747
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Livedo is a well-known skin condition in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) which correspond to small vessels involvement.
explanation: This reference discusses the prevalence of livedo in patients with SLE and APS, supporting its categorization as a dermatologic manifestation.
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Livedo Reticularis
term:
id: HP:0033505
label: Livedo reticularis
- category: Neurologic
frequency: OCCASIONAL
name: Migraine Headaches
evidence:
- reference: PMID:27423434
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Migraine is the most commonly reported type of headache in APS/aPL-positive patients.
explanation: The literature indicates that migraine headaches are frequently reported in patients with Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), supporting the statement that they are an occasional neurological manifestation.
- reference: PMID:29756580
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Cerebral vascular accident (33%), retinal artery/vein occlusion (21%), and seizure (20%) were the most frequent presentations among the patients.
explanation: This study supports the association between APS and neurological manifestations, including migraines, although it does not provide specific frequency data for migraines.
- reference: PMID:27658514
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Although in the most recently updated (2006) APS classification criteria, the neurological manifestations encompass only transient ischemic attack and stroke, diverse 'non-criteria' neurological disorders or manifestations (i.e., headache, migraine...) have been observed in APS patients.
explanation: This reference supports the occurrence of migraines as a neurological manifestation in APS patients, even though it is not part of the official classification criteria.
- category: Cardiovascular
name: Pulmonary Embolism
frequency: FREQUENT
notes: Clot migration from deep veins to pulmonary arteries
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Pulmonary embolism
term:
id: HP:0002204
label: Pulmonary embolism
- category: Neurologic
name: Stroke
frequency: FREQUENT
notes: Arterial thrombosis causing cerebrovascular accident
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Stroke
term:
id: HP:0001297
label: Stroke
biochemical:
- name: Antiphospholipid Antibodies
presence: Positive
evidence:
- reference: PMID:26307097
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: According to current guidelines, 3 tests (lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin, and anti beta2-glycoprotein I antibodies) are officially recommended to assess the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies.
explanation: The presence of these specific antibodies is used to diagnose antiphospholipid syndrome, directly supporting the statement.
- name: Lupus Anticoagulant
presence: Positive
evidence:
- reference: PMID:8712801
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Recent data suggest strongly that lupus anticoagulants (LACs) and anticardiolipin antibodies (ACAs) are antibodies to protein-phospholipid complexes.
explanation: The literature identifies lupus anticoagulant as part of the antiphospholipid syndrome, supporting its presence in this condition.
- reference: PMID:36032074
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: As both platelet-bound C4d (PC4d) and aPL are associated with thrombosis in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)...
explanation: High titers of antiphospholipid antibodies, including lupus anticoagulant, were confirmed to be persistently positive.
- reference: PMID:20848817
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: The 2006 International Consensus Statement on an Update of the Classification Criteria for Definite Antiphospholipid Syndrome has increased the time between the two laboratory studies required for diagnosis from 6 to 12 weeks. Antibody to beta2 glycoprotein 1 has been included as a criterion.
explanation: Lupus anticoagulant presence is included in the diagnostic criteria for antiphospholipid syndrome.
- reference: PMID:23219767
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Triple positivity (positive Lupus Anticoagulant, anticardiolipin and anti beta2-glycoptrotein I antibodies) identifies the pathogenic autoantibody.
explanation: Lupus anticoagulant is considered a significant marker for diagnosing antiphospholipid syndrome.
- name: Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies
presence: Positive
evidence:
- reference: PMID:15804703
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: The anticardiolipin (aCL) antibody test was first established in 1983, using cardiolipin (negatively charged phospholipid) as an antigen in a solid-phase immunoassay. It was first applied to the study of systemic lupus erythematosus patients, and was found associated with thromboses and recurrent pregnancy losses. The wide use of this test was determinant in the definition of the 'aCL or antiphospholipid syndrome' (APS).
explanation: The presence of anticardiolipin antibodies is associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
- reference: PMID:35728601
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: The evaluation of aPL is standardized using immunological tests for anticardiolipin and anti-beta2-glycoprotein I.
explanation: Anticardiolipin antibodies are used in the evaluation and diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome.
- reference: PMID:10977230
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Antiphospholipid syndrome includes elevation of either the lupus anticoagulant titer or the anticardiolipin antibody titer on two occasions, separated by 6 weeks in a patient with an episode of thrombosis.
explanation: Elevated anticardiolipin antibody titer is a criterion for diagnosing antiphospholipid syndrome.
- name: Beta-2 Glycoprotein I Antibodies
presence: Positive
evidence:
- reference: PMID:7795615
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Anticardiolipin (aCL) and anti-beta 2-glycoprotein I(anti beta 2GPI) antibodies have been shown in animal models as not cross-reacting antibody populations.
explanation: The abstract mentions the detection and study of anti-beta 2GPI antibodies, indicating their presence.
- reference: PMID:25292011
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: abeta2 Gp1 (anti-betaeta-2 glycoprotein 1) antibody and LAC (lupus anticoagulant) of 1222 consecutive patients referred to the coagulation laboratory work-up for a hypercoagulable/thrombophilic state.
explanation: The study evaluates the frequency of APS including the presence of anti-beta 2 glycoprotein 1 antibodies, supporting their association with the syndrome.
- reference: PMID:21046294
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: Although many antigens have been identified in relation to the antiphospholipid syndrome, beta2-glycoprotein I is regarded as clinically most significant.
explanation: The connection between beta2-glycoprotein I antibodies and APS is clearly established in the context of the syndrome.
- reference: PMID:28347805
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: β2-glycoprotein I is a phospholipid-binding glycoprotein, and its antibodies have been reported to correlate strongly with thrombotic risk and play putative role in the pathogenesis of APS, whereas the biofunctions of anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies remain largely uncertain
explanation: The involvement of beta2-glycoprotein I antibodies in APS and their role in pathogenesis is discussed in detail.
- name: Anti-Smith Antibodies
presence: Negative
evidence:
- reference: PMID:24420722
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: anti-Smith (Sm) antibodies were not detected in both groups.
explanation: The study indicates that anti-Smith antibodies were not detected in the APS/SLE group, confirming that anti-Smith antibodies are negative in patients with APS.
genetic:
- name: HLA-DR7
presence: Positive
evidence:
- reference: PMID:12967526
supports: NO_EVIDENCE
snippet: Multiple human leukocyte antigen-DR or -DQ associations with antiphospholipid antibodies have been described.
explanation: The reference mentions various HLA-DR associations with antiphospholipid antibodies but does not specifically mention HLA-DR7.
- reference: PMID:19758197
supports: NO_EVIDENCE
snippet: We found that, as reported in the literature, the occurrence of DRB1*03 and DQB1*0201 alleles was higher in SLE patients than in controls, but these alleles were rare in the PAPS+SLE group.
explanation: This reference does not mention HLA-DR7 in the context of antiphospholipid syndrome.
- reference: PMID:7767340
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: In conclusion, in PAPS patients from the South of Spain, HLA-DQ7 antigen showed the highest relative risk for PAPS, followed by DRw53.
explanation: Although HLA-DR7 is not specifically mentioned, this study discusses HLA-DR associations and could support the association indirectly. However, the mention of HLA-DR7 is more explicitly connected to diabetic retinopathy rather than APS.
- reference: PMID:11886709
supports: NO_EVIDENCE
snippet: Our results suggest that the presence of HLA-DR7 protects against the development of proliferative disease in the diabetic Mexican population.
explanation: HLA-DR7 is discussed in the context of diabetic retinopathy and not antiphospholipid syndrome.
- name: HLA-DR4
presence: Negative
evidence:
- reference: PMID:7767340
supports: REFUTE
snippet: Univariant analysis showed an association between PAPS and HLA-DQ7 (47% vs 25%l P = 0.3), DR4 (32% vs 16%; P = 0.08) and DQ3 (63% vs 39%; P = 0.04).
explanation: The literature suggests an association between primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS), which is a form of APS, and HLA-DR4, contradicting the claim that HLA-DR4 presence is negative.
- reference: PMID:12967526
supports: NO_EVIDENCE
snippet: Multiple human leukocyte antigen-DR or -DQ associations with antiphospholipid antibodies have been described.
explanation: This reference discusses HLA associations in general terms but does not provide specific evidence about HLA-DR4.
environmental:
- name: Smoking
presence: Positive
evidence: []
exposure_term:
preferred_term: Tobacco smoking exposure
term:
id: ECTO:6000029
label: exposure to tobacco smoking
- name: Infection
presence: Positive
evidence:
- reference: PMID:17531174
supports: PARTIAL
snippet: An association between infections and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) has been reported in several epidemiologic and experimental studies. Infection-induced aPL have been traditionally regarded as transient and were generally not associated with clinical features of antiphospholipid syndrome.
explanation: The statement is partially supported because while there is an association between infections and antiphospholipid antibodies, infection-induced aPL are traditionally regarded as transient and not generally associated with the clinical features of antiphospholipid syndrome.
- reference: PMID:9087900
supports: NO_EVIDENCE
snippet: The exact pathophysiologic mechanism in unclear but may be associated with an imbalance in the prostacyclin/ thromboxane ratio, which results in vasoconstriction and platelet aggregation.
explanation: This reference discusses antiphospholipid syndrome in the context of pregnancy loss and does not provide evidence regarding infections as an environmental factor.
exposure_term:
preferred_term: Infectious agent exposure
term:
id: ECTO:3000000
label: exposure to organism
review_notes: Antiphospholipid syndrome is an autoimmune disorder characterized by thrombosis (both venous and arterial) and pregnancy complications due to autoantibodies against phospholipid-binding proteins. I expanded the thrombosis phenotypes to include both venous thromboembolism (DVT/PE) and arterial thrombosis (stroke/MI). I also added additional occasional phenotypes seen in APS like preeclampsia, livedo reticularis skin changes, and migraines. The pregnancy complications are a key feature so I increased their frequency to frequent.
disease_term:
preferred_term: antiphospholipid syndrome
term:
id: MONDO:8000010
label: antiphospholipid syndrome
classifications:
harrisons_chapter:
- classification_value: hematologic disorder
- classification_value: coagulation disorder
- classification_value: autoimmune disease