antiphospholipid syndrome

Question 1

key characteristics of antiphospholipid syndrome

Answer 1

predisposition to venous and arterial thromboses
recurrent fetal loss
thrombocytopenia

Question 2

features of antiphospholipid syndrome

Answer 2

venous/arterial thrombosis
recurrent miscarriages
livedo reticularis
pre-eclampsia, pulmonary hypertension

Question 3

investigations for antiphospholipid syndrome

Answer 3

antibodies: anticardiolipid antibodies, anti-beta2 glycoprotein I, lupus anticoagulant
thrombocytopenia
prolonged APTT

Question 4

management of antiphospholipid syndrome

Answer 4

primary thromboprophylaxis
- low dose aspirin
- consider LMWH for high risk scenarios
secondary thromboprophylaxis
- initial VTE events: lifelong warfarin (target INR 2-3)
- can add on aspirin

Question 5

management of antiphospholipid syndrome during pregnancy

Answer 5

low dose aspirin plus LMWH