Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Overview

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired thrombotic disorder caused by autoantibodies against phospholipid-protein complexes in the circulation. Main features include arterial or venous thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, and pregnancy complications such as recurrent miscarriage and premature birth, with persistently positive antiphospholipid antibodies.

Symptoms

• Recurrent thrombosis
• Recurrent miscarriage
• Thrombocytopenia
• Livedo reticularis

Treatment

Treatment mainly involves anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy to prevent thrombosis; pregnancy requires specialist monitoring and management.

Dietary advice

A light, balanced diet with stable vitamin K intake to complement anticoagulant therapy.