Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome

Abstract

Antiphospholipid antibodies are directed against phospholipid-protein complexes and include lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin antibodies, and anti-beta-2 glycoprotein I antibodies. Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is a common cause of acquired thrombophilia and is characterized by venous or arterial thromboembolism or pregnancy morbidity and the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies. Antibodies should be demonstrable on at least 2 occasions separated by 12 weeks. Heterogeneity of the autoantibodies and absence of gold standard assays makes interpretation of laboratory results a challenge for both laboratorians and clinicians. This review discusses the key laboratory and clinical aspects of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. Particular focus is given to lupus anticoagulant detection, in view of recently updated laboratory guidelines.