| Topic: | hematologic diseases (he) |
| Title: | Antiphospholipid Syndrome. |
| Author: | Rand, J.H. |
| Source: | IN: Hematology 2007. Washington, DC: American Society of Hematology. 2007. pp.136-142. |
| Availability: | Available from American Society of Hematology. 1900 M Street NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036. Email: ASH@hematology.org. Website: www.asheducationbook.org. Price: Available free on website. |
| Abstract: | This chapter, from the annual Hematology 2007, describes the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), an autoimmune thrombophilic condition that is marked by the presence of antibodies that recognize phospholipid-binding proteins. Patients with APS tend to present with vascular thrombosis and pregnancy complications, especially recurrent, spontaneous miscarriages. The author focuses on updated diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to this disorder. The author recommends that testing for antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies should usually be restricted to patients who have had thrombosis, embolism, or pregnancy complications that may be attributable to APS, and to patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) even if they have not had these manifestations. An initial venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with confirmed APS should be treated with warfarin. Recurrence of VTE in the face of standard treatment should be treated with higher intensity coagulation or in selected situations with a form of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). For pregnant patients with VTE, the author recommends treatment with prophylactic dose heparin plus low-dose aspirin (81 milligrams daily), with modification of administration for delivery, followed by resumption of prophylactic anticoagulation. 2 figures. 3 tables. 41 references. |
| Format: | Monograph/Book |
| Language: | English. |
| Major Keywords: | Hematologic Diseases. Thrombosis. Diagnosis. Etiology. Diagnostic Tests. Anticoagulants. Patient Care Management. |
| Minor Keywords: | Drug Therapy. Administration and Dosage. Drug Effects. Patient Selection. Risk Factors. Pregnancy. Complications. |
| Publication Number: | HEBK10215 |
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