ABSTRACT: Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder defined by the presence of characteristic clinical features and specified levels of circulating antiphospholipid antibodies Box 1 and Box 2. Diagnosis requires that at least one clinical and one laboratory criterion are met. Because approximately 70% of individuals with APS are female 1, it is reasonably prevalent among women of reproductive age. Antiphospholipid antibodies are a diverse group of antibodies with specificity for binding to negatively charged phospholipids on cell surfaces. Despite the prevalence and clinical significance of APS, there is controversy about the indications for and types of antiphospholipid tests that should be performed in order to diagnose the condition. Much of the debate results from a lack of well-designed and controlled studies on the diagnosis and management of APS. The purpose of this document is to evaluate the data for diagnosis and treatment of APS.
- Jump to
- Search page
-
Resources
Resources Close
By reading this page you agree to ACOG's Terms and Conditions. Read terms
Nonmembers: Subscribe now to access exclusive ACOG Clinical content, including:
ACOG Clinical is designed for easy and convenient access to the latest clinical guidance for patient care. Developed with members’, physicians’, and women’s health care professionals’ needs in mind, user-friendly features include:
- Easy, advanced search function to find the most relevant guidance
- Enhanced document presentation
- Advanced features and functionality
You’ll find clinical content written and peer reviewed by experts and valuable information that spans guidance on the diagnosis and management of the full spectrum of obstetric and gynecological conditions and clinical management issues.
Note for Life Fellows: Annual membership dues are waived but there is a discounted annual subscription fee of $95 for access to publications such as the Green Journal, Practice Bulletins, and Committee Opinions. Individual subscriptions include print and online access. Subscribe today.
Subscribe