An update on the management of antiphospholipid syndrome

Abstract

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by recurrent venous or arterial thrombosis with or without pregnancy morbidity in the presence of persistent antiphospholipid (aPL) autoantibodies. Anticoagulation has, until now, formed the cornerstone of treatment but a significant proportion of patients continue to experience thrombosis and pregnancy morbidity despite this treatment. Thrombosis is the most common cause of mortality and accounts for two fifths of deaths. Direct oral anticoagulant drugs represent an attractive alternative to conventional vitamin K antagonist drugs but emerging evidence suggests these may not be suitable for high-risk patients with thrombotic APS. Laboratory studies and case reports of the successful use of different classes of drugs in APS is increasing our understanding of the other pathophysiological mechanisms which may contribute to the high morbidity of APS. This review summarizes current accepted anticoagulant treatment for APS and examines other potential drugs such as immunomodulating agents, statins and novel agents such as sirolimus and defibrotide.