Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Stroke

pp 479-488

Abstract

Recent interest in antiphospholipid antibodies and focal ischemic cerebrovascular disease has surged. Antiphospholipid antibodies are a heterogeneous family of antibodies. Anticoagulant assays detect lupus anticoagulants while solid phase immuno assays detect anticardiolipin antibodies. Patients with antiphospholipid antibodies have a high risk of recurrent thrombotic events, including stroke, deep venous thrombosis and spontaneous abortion. Because of limited controlled prospective data, current therapy remains empiric. The numerous potential links between antiphospholipid antibodies and coagulation disorders will be reviewed. While the specific mechanism of antiphospholipid antibodies-related coagulopathy is unknown, antiphospholipid antibodies foster an immune-mediated prothrombothic state.