Antiphospholipid syndrome in women: Case series and review of literature

Abstract

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder consisting of components like thrombosis of arteries and veins, adverse outcomes of pregnancy affecting both mother and fetus, and raised levels of antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies. Found only in 5 persons per 100,000 populations. We are reporting three patients who presented with severe chest pain and breathlessness of acute onset, history suggestive of recurrent 2nd-trimester abortions. All basic investigations were done along with ECG, chest x-ray, D-dimer, CECT, and APLprofile. Clinical, radiological and laboratory data were in favor of Anti-phospholipid syndrome in all the patients. They were managed conservatively with anticoagulant therapy and other supportive measures. This case series is reported with review of some relevant literature. We conclude that young women with history of recurrent abortions presenting with acute onset of breathlessness and chest pain should be investigated in the line of pulmonary thromboembolism due to antiphospholipid antibody syndrome.

Keywords

• antiphospholipid antibody syndrome
• anti-cardiolipin
• lupus anticoagulants
• anti-β2glycoprotein i