Retinal vein and artery occlusion as the first manifestation of primary antiphospholipid syndrome in a pediatric patient / Oclusão arterial e venosa como primeira manifestação da síndrome antifosfolipide primária em criança

ABSTRACT Antiphospholipid syndrome is an acquired autoimmune disease characterized by hypercoagulability associated with recurrent venous and arterial thromboembolism in the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies. Herein, we report a case of rapid sequential retinal vein and artery occlusion as the first manifestation of a primary antiphospholipid syndrome triggered by an acute Mycoplasma infection in a previously healthy 11-year-old patient. On day 1, ophthalmoscopy revealed a central retinal vein occlusion. The patient developed temporal branch retinal artery occlusion the next day. On day 3, a central retinal artery occlusion was observed. Serum lupus anticoagulant, immunoglobulin (Ig) G anticardiolipin, IgG anti-β2-glycoprotein 1 antibody, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgM antibody levels were increased. Thus, retinal vascular occlusions can be the first manifestation of primary antiphospholipid syndrome. Although it may not improve visual prognosis, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid further significant morbidity.

RESUMO A síndrome antifosfolipide é uma doença autoimune adquirida caracterizada por hipercoagulabilidade associada a tromboembolismo venoso e arterial recorrente na presença de anticorpos antifosfolipídicos. Aqui, relatamos um caso clínico de oclusão sequencial de veia e artéria da retina como primeira manifestação de uma síndrome antifosfolipíde primária desen­cadeada por uma infeção aguda por Mycoplasma num paciente de 11 anos previamente saudável. No primeiro dia, a oftalmoscopia revelou uma oclusão da veia central da retina. No dia seguinte, o paciente desenvolveu uma oclusão do ramo temporal da artéria central da retina. No terceiro dia, uma oclusão da artéria central da retina foi diagnosticada. Os níveis de anticoagulante lúpico sérico, anticorpos IgG anticardiolipina e IgG anti-β2-glicoproteína 1 e anticorpos IgM para Mycoplasma pneumoniae estavam aumentados. As oclusões vasculares retinianas podem ser a primeira manifestação da síndrome antifosfolipíde primária. Apesar do prognóstico visual ser reservado, o seu diagnóstico e o tratamento imediatos são essenciais para evitar outras morbilidades associadas.

Factores de predicción relevantes en la supervivencia de pacientes con síndrome antifosfolípido / Relevants predictions factors in the survival of patients with antiphospholipid syndrome

Introducción: Los pacientes con síndrome antifosfolípido desarrollan morbilidad y mortalidad significativas a pesar del tratamiento actual. Es imperativo, identificar factores pronósticos y medidas terapéuticas para prevenir estas complicaciones. Objetivo: Determinar los factores relevantes en la predicción de la supervivencia en los pacientes con síndrome antifosfolípido. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio longitudinal analítico de una cohorte histórica de personas con síndrome antifosfolípido, diagnosticados, según los criterios de Sapporo/Sydney y colaboradores en la consulta de enfermedades autoinmunes sistémicas del Hospital Universitario Clínico-Quirúrgico «Arnaldo Milián Castro», Villa Clara, del año 2000 al 2015. Se estudiaron variables demográficas y clínicas. En cada caso se determinó el tiempo de supervivencia con relación al evento muerte. Se aplicó el método de Kaplan Meier para calcular la supervivencia global y determinar las variables predictoras de la mortalidad. Según el estudio de los estadígrafos de comparación interestratos(Log-Rank) se demostró la significación estadística con la prueba de Chi cuadrado de homogeneidad. Resultados: De los 128 pacientes estudiados, 118 fueron femeninos y 10 masculinos (111 de piel blanca y 17 no blancos). La supervivencia global fue de 67,1 % con una media de 13,37 años. Las variables más relevantes que aportaron a la mortalidad en relación con menor supervivencia fueron: leucopenia, linfopenia, color de la piel no blanca, y el no uso de aspirina, con medias de supervivencia de 8,83; 8,17; 10,72; 12,10 años, respectivamente. Conclusiones: La identificación temprana de los factores pronósticos de supervivencia permite implementar estrategias oportunas e individualizadas en pacientes con síndrome antifosfolípido.

Introduction: patients with antiphospholipid syndrome develop significant morbidity and mortality despite current treatment. Identifying prognostic factors and therapeutic measures to prevent these complications is indispensable. Objective: to determine relevant factors in the prediction of survival in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome. Methods: a longitudinal analytical study was carried out on cohorts with antiphospholipid syndrome who were diagnosed according to the Sapporo-Sydney criteria and collaborators in the systemic autoimmune disease consultation at "Arnaldo Milián Castro" Clinical and Surgical University Hospital in Villa Clara from 2000 to 2015. Demographic and clinical variables were studied. The survival time in relation to the death event was determined in each case. The Kaplan - Meier method was applied to calculate overall survival and determine the predictor variables for mortality. According to the study of inter-strata comparison statistics (Log-Rank), statistical significance was demonstrated with the Chi-square test of homogeneity. Results: a number of 118 patients were female and 10 male from the 128 studied (111 white-skinned and 17 non-white). Overall survival was 67.1% with a mean of 13.37 years. The most relevant variables that contributed to mortality in relation to lower survival were leukopenia, lymphopenia, non-white skin color and non-use of aspirin, with mean survival of 8.83; 8.17; 10.72; 12.10 years, respectively. Conclusions: the early identification of survival prognostic factors allows us the implementation of timely and individualized strategies in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome.

As trombofilias na perda gestacional de repetição: uma revisão de prevalência e condutas / Thrombophilias in recurrent pregnancy loss: a review of prevalence and conduct

Objetivo: Discutir o papel das trombofilias na perda gestacional de repetição, com foco em prevalência/associação dessas patologias com perdas de repetição e seu tratamento, por meio de resultados de ensaios clínicos, revisões sistemáticas e metanálises. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão não sistemática de artigos publi- cados nas bases eletrônicas PubMed, Cochrane e SciELO nos últimos cinco anos, utilizando os seguintes descritores: "recurrent pregnancy loss", "recurrent abortion", "habitual abortion", "thrombophilia", "antiphospholipid syndrome" e "treatment". Resultados: A maioria dos estudos relatou forte associação entre os anticorpos antifosfolípides específicos e a síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolípide com perda gestacional de repetição. Mulheres portadoras da mutação do fator V de Leiden, mutação do gene da protrombina e deficiência de proteína S apresentaram alto risco de perda gestacional de repetição em uma grande revisão sistemática. Estudos recentes demonstraram taxas de prevalência das trombofilias hereditárias e da síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolípide, em mulheres com perda gestacional de repetição, semelhantes às da população em geral. Os estudos atuais endossam o uso da heparina associada à aspirina em mulheres com síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolípide, com aumento da taxa de nascidos vivos, mas sem diferença em re- lação às complicações obstétricas. Conclusão: Apesar de novos estudos demons- trarem que a prevalência das trombofilias hereditárias e adquiridas em mulheres com perda gestacional de repetição é semelhante à da população em geral, reco- menda-se a pesquisa rotineira de síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolípide nessas pacientes. O uso de aspirina em baixas doses associada à heparina é a intervenção farmacológica de primeira linha para a prevenção de perda gestacional de repeti- ção em pacientes com síndrome do anticorpo antifosfolípide.

Objective: To discuss the role of thrombophilias in recurrent pregnancy loss, focu- sing on the prevalence/association of these pathologies with recurrent abortion and treatment, through results of clinical trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Methods: This is a non-systematic review of articles published in electronic databa- ses PubMed, Cochrane, SciELO in the last five years, using the following descriptors: "recurrent pregnancy loss", "recurrent abortion", "habitual abortion", "thrombophilia", "antiphospholipid syndrome", and "treatment". Results: Most studies have reported a strong association between specific antiphospholipid antibodies and antiphospho- lipid antibody syndrome with recurrent pregnancy loss. Women carrying the factor V Leiden mutation, prothrombin gene mutation, and protein S deficiency were shown to be at high risk of recurrent pregnancy loss in a large systematic review. Recent studies have shown prevalence rates of hereditary thrombophilias and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, in women with re- current pregnancy loss, similar to those of the general po- pulation. Current studies endorse the use of heparin plus aspirin in women with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, with an increase in live birth rate, but with no difference in obstetric complications. Conclusion: Although new studies demonstrate that the prevalence of hereditary and acquired thrombophilias in women with recurrent pregnancy loss is si- milar to that of the general population, routine investigation of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome in these patients is recommended. The use of low-dose aspirin plus heparin is the first-line pharmacological intervention for the prevention of recurrent pregnancy loss in patients with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome.

Infarto pulmonar cavitado en mujer con lupus eritematoso sistémico asociado a síndrome antifosfolípido

Tanto lupus eritematoso sistémico como el síndrome antifosfolípido son enfermedades autoinmunes con potencial tromboembólico, sobre todo por la presencia de anticuerpos trombogénicos. El pulmón es un lugar común donde suele asentarse un trombo y generar una tromboembolia, a veces con posterior infarto y cavitación. Existen pocos estudios que informen un infarto pulmonar cavitado en un paciente con lupus asociado a síndrome antifosfolípido. Presentamos el caso de una mujer de 24 años con síntomas generales y lesión pulmonar derecha cavitada. Fue tratada inicialmente como infección tuberculosa o fúngica. La analítica y las imágenes orientaron y diagnosticaron lupus asociado a síndrome antifosfolípido, complicado con tromboembolismo pulmonar que luego pasó a cavitarse. La paciente mejoró considerablemente con anticoagulantes, corticoides y ciclofosfamida.

Both systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome are autoimmune diseases with thromboembolic potential, especially due to the presence of thrombogenic antibodies. The lung is a common place where a thrombus usually settles and generates a thromboembolism, sometimes with subsequent infarction and cavitation. There are few studies reporting cavitary pulmonary infarction in a patient with lupus associated with antiphospholipid syndrome. We present the case of a 24-year-old woman with general symptoms and cavitated right lung lesion. She was initially treated as tuberculous or fungal infection. Laboratory tests and images guided and diagnosed lupus associated with antiphospholipid syndrome, complicated by pulmonary thromboembolism that later became cavitated. The patient improved considerably with anticoagulants, corticosteroids, and cyclophosphamide.

Complicaciones hemorrágicas y trombóticas del embarazo: diagnóstico, prevención y tratamiento

Las hemorragias y la enfermedad tromboembólica venosa (ETEV) figuran entre las cinco causas más frecuentes de morbilidad y mortalidad materna en el mundo. Revisamos la evaluación y el manejo actualizado de las causas obstétricas de la hemorragia posparto (HPP), así como el diagnóstico y manejo de condiciones hematológicas que pueden causar o agravar la HPP, por ejemplo: coagulación intravascular diseminada, enfermedad de von Willebrand, trombocitopenia autoinmune y las microangiopatías trombóticas. Revisamos el rol del síndrome antifosfolípido y las trombofilias hereditarias como factores predisponentes a pérdidas fetales recurrentes y la ETEV en el embarazo y las recomendaciones actuales para la prevención de ambas complicaciones. Asimismo, repasamos el abordaje diagnóstico y líneas de manejo de la ETEV. Un objetivo adicional fue enfatizar la importancia del trabajo colaborativo multidisciplinario para lograr el manejo exitoso de las gestantes con las complicaciones obstétricas y hematológicas descritas.

Bleeding and venous thromboembolism (VTE) are among the five most common causes of morbidity and mortality in pregnant women worldwide. This review describes the current evaluation and management of the obstetric causes of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), as well as the diagnosis and management of hematologic conditions which can cause or worsen PPH, such as disseminated intravascular coagulation, von Willebrand disease, autoimmune thrombocytopenia and the thrombotic microangiopathies. It also describes the role of the antiphospholipid syndrome and inherited thrombophilia as predisposing factors for recurrent pregnancy loses and VTE, and the current recommendations for the prevention of both complications. As well, the current diagnostic approach and management of ETEV are described. An additional objective of this Review is to emphasize the importance of a collaborative multidisciplinary approach for the successful management of the obstetric and hematologic complications herein described.

Síndrome antifosfolípido y tumores cardiacos

Presentamos el caso de una paciente mujer de 31 años con antecedente de litiasis coraliforme bilateral. Ella inició la enfermedad un mes antes del ingreso con trombocitopenia y anemia hemolítica autoinmune. Fue diagnosticada con Síndrome de Evans, inicialmente tuvo marcadores de autoinmunidad negativos, finalmente presentó disnea progresiva y se le encontró 4 masas intracardiacas en aurícula derecha y marcadores positivos para síndrome antifosfolípido. A pesar de la anticoagulación y preparación para cirugía cardiaca, la paciente tuvo una muerte súbita.

We present the case of a 31-year-old female patient with a history of bilateral staghorn lithiasis, who started the disease one month before admission with thrombocytopenia and autoimmune hemolytic anemia. She was diagnosed with Evans Syndrome, initially she had negative autoimmunity markers, finally presented progressive dyspnea and 4 intracardiac masses were found in the right atrium and positive markers for antiphospholipid syndrome. Despite anticoagulation and preparation for cardiac surgery, she presented sudden death.

Hemorragia alveolar como manifestación de síndrome antifosfolípido primario / Alveolar Hemorrhage as a Manifestation of Primary Antiphospholipid Syndrome

RESUMEN El síndrome antifosfolípido (SAF) es una entidad caracterizada por fenómenos trom bóticos (arteriales y/o venosos), pérdidas fetales y elevación sérica persistente de anticuerpos antifosfolípidos. Las complicaciones pulmonares más frecuentes del SAF son: tromboembolismo pulmonar, hipertensión pulmonar tromboembólica. La hemorragia alveolar es una ma nifestación infrecuente y potencialmente mortal (SAF catastrófico). El diagnóstico se confirma cuando en una muestra tomada mediante lavado bronquioalveolar (BAL), más del 20 % de los macrófagos son positivos para hemosiderina. Los hallazgos radiográfi cos más comúnmente muestran opacidades en vidrio deslustrado o de consolidación que suelen ser difusas, bilaterales más centrales que periféricas. La DLCO es otro método diagnóstico, con valores por encima del 120 % del valor predicho. Presentamos el caso de un paciente con SAF con antecedentes de trombosis venosa profunda (TVP) y tromboembolismo pulmonar (TEP) anticoagulado, que ingresa con diagnóstico de hemorragia alveolar (HA).

ABSTRACT Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an entity characterized by thrombotic phenomena (arterial and/or venous), fetal losses, and persistent increase in the serum level of antiphospholipid antibodies. The most common pulmonary complications of APS are pulmonary thromboembolism and thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. Alveolar hemorrhage is a rare, potentially life-threatening manifestation (catastrophic APS). The diagnosis is confirmed when more than 20 % of the macrophages in a sample taken by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) are positive for hemosiderin. Radiographic findings most commonly show ground-glass opacities or consolidations that are usually diffuse, bilateral, more central than peripheral. The DLCO is another diagnostic method, with values above 120 % of the predicted value. We present the case of a patient with APS with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and anticoagulated pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE), who was admitted with a diag nosis of alveolar hemorrhage (AH).

Clinical characteristics of 37 antiphospholipid syndrome patients complicated by autoimmune hemolytic anemia / 中华内科杂志

Objective:We sought to investigate the clinical characteristics and risk factors of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) complicated by autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA).Methods:Retrospective anaysis.Three hundred fifteen consecutive patients with APS were enrolled at the Department of Rheumatology of Peking Union Medical College Hospital between May 2017 to May 2021, and their clinical manifestations[including initial symptoms, time interval between APS onset and diagnosis, systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE), thrombotic events, obstetric morbidity, and extra-criteria manifestations] and laboratory test results[including blood routine, antiphospholipid antibodies(aPLs), blood lipid profile, homocysteine, anti-nuclear antibody profile, immunoglobulin levels, and complement levels] were collected. Then, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Clinical features and risk factors were analyzed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis.Results:Among 315 APS patients, 37 cases (11.7%) were complicated by AIHA, and AIHA was the first manifestation or co-occurrence. The median time interval between APS onset and diagnosis was 12 months. The proportion of SLE in APS patients combined with AIHA was higher than that in APS patients without AIHA[62.2%(23/37) vs. 19.4%(54/278), P<0.001]. There was no significant difference in the proportions of thrombosis and pregnancy morbidity between the two groups. In terms of extra-criteria manifestations, APS patients with AIHA had a significantly ( P<0.05) greater risk of thrombocytopenia ( OR=6.19, 95% CI 2.81-13.65) and higher proportions of hypocomplementemia, a positive lupus anticoagulant (LA) result, double aPLs positivity[i.e., any two of the following antibodies were positive: LA, anticardilolipin antibody(aCL), and anti-β2 glycoprotein Ⅰ(β2GPⅠ)], and triple aPLs positivity (i.e., LA, aCL, and anti-β2GPⅠ antibodies were all positive). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that SLE ( OR=3.46,95% CI 1.60-7.48), thrombocytopenia ( OR=2.56,95% CI 1.15-5.67), and hypocomplementemia ( OR=4.29,95% CI 2.03-9.04) were independent risk factors for the complication of APS. In the primary APS subgroup, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that livedo reticularis ( OR=10.51,95%CI 1.06-103.78), thrombocytopenia ( OR=3.77, 95% CI 1.23-11.57), and hypocomplementemia ( OR=5.92,95% CI 1.95-17.95) were independent risk factors for the complication of APS. Conclusions:AIHA is not rare in APS patients; moreover, it occurs more frequently in APS secondary to SLE and is more likely to present with a variety of extra-criteria manifestations. Patients with AIHA should be promptly tested for antiphospholipid antibody profiles and alerted to the possibility of thrombotic events.

Advances in the Effects of Antiphospholipid Syndrome on Female Infertility and Outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technologies / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

Antiphospholipid syndrome （APS） is an autoimmune disease characterized by the persistent presence of antiphospholipid antibodies， which are associated with thrombosis and pregnancy-related complications. APS may have adverse effects on female reproductive function by affecting ovarian function， endometrialization， and other mechanisms， and may lead to embryo implantation failure and pregnancy loss during in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer （IVF-ET） treatments. The routine screening and management of APS before IVF-ET in infertile populations remains controversial and requires individualized risk assessment and appropriate management measures to improve the success rate of assisted reproductive technologies （ART） and reduce maternal and fetal risks during pregnancy. This review summarizes the effects of APS on female infertility and outcomes of ART， as well as the management of the population affected by APS， providing new insights for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Combined with Chorea: Report of One Case and Literature Review / 中国医学科学院学报

Systemic lupus erythematosus combined with chorea is relatively rare in China,and there are no unified diagnostic criteria or specific ancillary tests.Therefore,it is confirmed by exclusionary clinical diagnosis.To improve the understanding of this disease among rheumatologists,we report the clinical data of a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus combined with chorea admitted to the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology in the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University in January 2022.Furthermore,we review the relevant literature in the past 10 years and summarize the clinical features of these cases.

Manifestaciones clínicas "no criterio" del Síndrome Antifosfolipídico. Presentación de una cohorte nacional

Introducción: El síndrome antifosfolipídico (SAF) es una afección de origen autoinmune caracterizada por trombosis, pérdidas fetales recurrentes y anticuerpos antifosfolipídicos (aFL). Existen manifestaciones clínicas no contempladas en los criterios clasificatorios, que se denominan manifestaciones no criterio. Objetivo: Analizar las manifestaciones clínicas del SAF, enfatizando las manifestaciones no criterio y su relación con el perfil de autoanticuerpos en un hospital general de Montevideo, Uruguay. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de las historias clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico definitivo o sospecha de SAF en un servicio de medicina ambulatoria de enfermedades autoinmunes, en el Hospital Maciel, asistidos entre el 2010 y 2019. Resultados: Se incluyeron 78 pacientes, con edad media de 50,3 ± 14,5 años, 69 (88,5%) correspondió a sexo femenino. Cuarenta y seis (59,0%) pacientes presentaron SAF secundario, de los cuales 28 (35,9%) asociaron LES. La trombosis venosa de miembros inferiores fue la manifestación más frecuente (51,3%). Dieciocho (24,0%) pacientes presentaron trombosis arteriales en forma de accidente cerebrovascular. Cincuenta y nueve (75.6%) casos presentaron, además de las manifestaciones clasificatorias, alguna de las manifestaciones "no criterio" y éstas se manifestaron de forma aislada en 10 (12.8%) pacientes. Las manifestaciones no clasificatorias más frecuentes fueron artralgias, livedo reticularis, migraña y trombocitopenia. Se observó una asociación significativa entre la presencia de anti-ß2GPI con manifestaciones cutáneas y de trombocitopenia con al menos una manifestación trombótica. Conclusiones: Las manifestaciones "no criterio" del SAF se presentaron en casi 3 de cada 4 casos, frecuencia similar a la observada en otras series. La presencia aislada de manifestaciones "no criterio" podrían hacer sospechar un SAF y en algunos casos, conducir a la solicitud de anticuerpos.

Introduction: Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune condition characterized by thrombosis, recurrent fetal loss, and antiphospholipid antibodies. There are clinical manifestations not contemplated in the classification criteria, which are called non-criterion manifestations. Objective: To analyze the clinical manifestations of APS, emphasizing the non-criterion manifestations and their relationship with the autoantibody profile in a general hospital in Montevideo, Uruguay. Methods: A retrospective analysis of the medical records of patients with a definitive or suspected diagnosis of APS in an outpatient medicine service for autoimmune diseases, at the Maciel Hospital, assisted between 2010 and 2019, was carried out. Results: 78 patients were included, with a mean age of 50.3 +/- 14.5 years, 69 (88.5%) were female. Forty-six (59.0%) patients presented secondary APS, of which 28 (35.9%) associated SLE. Venous thrombosis of the lower limbs was the most frequent manifestation (51.3%). Eighteen (24.0%) patients presented arterial thrombosis in the form of cerebrovascular accident. Fifty-nine (75.6%) cases presented, in addition to the classification manifestations, some of the "non-criterion" manifestations and these manifested in an isolated way in 10 (12.8%) patients. The most frequent non-classifying manifestations were arthralgia, livedo reticularis, migraine and thrombocytopenia. A significant association was observed between the presence of anti-ß2GPI with cutaneous manifestations and thrombocytopenia with at least one thrombotic manifestation. Conclusions: Non-criterion manifestations of APS occurred in almost 3 out of 4 cases, a frequency similar to that observed in other series. The isolated presence of "non-criterion" manifestations could lead to suspicion of APS and, in some cases, lead to the request for antibodies.

Introdução: A síndrome antifosfolipídica (SAF) é uma doença de origem auto-imune caracterizada por trombose, perdas fetais recorrentes e anticorpos antifosfolípidos (aFL). Existem manifestações clínicas não abrangidas pelos critérios de classificação, que são designadas por manifestações não-critério. Objetivo: Analisar as manifestações clínicas da SAF, enfatizando as manifestações não-critério e sua relação com o perfil de auto-anticorpos em um hospital geral de Montevidéu, Uruguai. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo dos prontuários de pacientes com diagnóstico definitivo ou suspeita de SAF em um serviço ambulatorial de doenças autoimunes do Hospital Maciel, atendidos entre 2010 e 2019. Resultados: Foram incluídos 78 pacientes, com idade média de 50,3 +/- 14,5 anos, sendo 69 (88,5%) do sexo feminino. Quarenta e seis (59,0%) pacientes apresentavam PFS secundária, dos quais 28 (35,9%) tinham LES associado. A trombose venosa dos membros inferiores foi a manifestação mais frequente (51,3%). Dezoito (24,0%) doentes apresentaram trombose arterial sob a forma de acidente vascular cerebral. Cinquenta e nove (75,6%) casos apresentaram, para além das manifestações classificatórias, algumas das manifestações "não-critério" e estas manifestações foram isoladas em 10 (12,8%) doentes. As manifestações não classificatórias mais frequentes foram artralgias, livedo reticularis, enxaqueca e trombocitopenia. Foi observada uma associação significativa entre a presença de anti-ß2GPI com manifestações cutâneas e trombocitopenia com pelo menos uma manifestação trombótica. Conclusões: As manifestações "não-critério" de SAF ocorreram em quase 3 de cada 4 casos, frequência semelhante à observada noutras séries. A presença isolada de manifestações "não-critério" pode levantar a suspeita de SAF e, nalguns casos, levar à pesquisa de anticorpos.

COVID-19 coagulopathy and antiphospholipid syndrome

The presence of thrombotic events in COVID-19 patients has been described since the beginning of the pandemic. This association has been confirmed in most of the reported studies. Autopsy reports have shown that most thromboses are located in the lung, although they have also been observed in other organs such as the skin and kidneys. SARS-CoV2 infection induces a generalized prothrombotic state, which is attributed to a combination of factors such as hypoxia, excess cellular apoptosis, and mainly to overactivation of the immune system. Among immune-mediated prothrombotic situations, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) stands out. Recurrent thrombotic events are observed in APS in the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). There are numerous studies that report high prevalence of aPL in patients with COVID-19 infection. However, the results show discrepancies in the data on the prevalence of aPL, and its role in the pathogenesis of thrombosis in these patients. This could be due to the heterogeneity of the detection procedures for aPL or to transient elevations of non-pathogenic aPL levels in the context of infection. In this review we try to clarify the role of aPL in COVID-19 infection, and attempt to answer the question of whether it is a coagulopathy of its own, or secondary to APS.

La presencia de eventos trombóticos en los pacientes con COVID-19 se describió desde el inicio de la pandemia, asociación que ha sido confirmada en la mayoría de los estudios reportados. Los informes de necropsias han puesto de manifiesto que la mayoría de las trombosis se localiza en el pulmón, aunque también se han observado en otros órganos, como la piel y los riñones. La infección por SARS-CoV-2 induce un estado protrombótico generalizado que se atribuye a una conjunción de factores como la hipoxia, el exceso de apoptosis celular y, sobre todo, una hiperactivación del sistema inmune. Entre las situaciones protrombóticas inmunomediadas destaca el síndrome antifosfolipídico, en el cual se observan eventos trombóticos de repetición en presencia de anticuerpos antifosfolipídicos (AAF). Existen numerosos estudios que reportan una elevada prevalencia de AAF en los pacientes con infección por la COVID-19; sin embargo, los resultados muestran discordancias en los datos de prevalencia de AAF y su rol en la patogenia sobre la trombosis en estos pacientes, lo que que podría deberse a la heterogeneidad de los procedimientos de detección de los AAF o a elevaciones transitorias de los niveles de AAF no patogénicos en el contexto de la infección. En esta revisión se busca aclarar el papel de los AAF en la infección por COVID-19, intentando responder a la pregunta de si se trata de una coagulopatía propia o es secundaria a un síndrome antifosfolipídico.

Management of Perioperative Anticoagulation in a Patient with Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Undergoing Cardiac Surgery: A Case Report

Patients with Antiphospholipid syndrome (APLS) are at high risk for both bleeding and thrombotic complications during cardiac surgery involving cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). In this case we present a patient with APLS and Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura who successfully underwent aortic valve replacement (AVR) with CPB despite recent craniotomy for subdural hematoma evacuation. Anticoagulation for CPB was monitored by targeting an Activated Clotting Time (ACT) that was 2× the upper limit of normal. A multidisciplinary approach was essential in ensuring a safe and successful operation.

Effectiveness of low-molecular-weight heparin in obstetric outcome of pregnancies having comorbidities with potential thrombotic risk

Background: The term “miscarriage” represents a demise of a fetus before it attains maturity. It encompasses all miscarriages between the time of conceive and the end of the pregnancy. Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and in vitro fertilization (IVF) are one of the major reasons for thrombosis in pregnancy causing miscarriages. Since low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) produces fewer thrombocytopenia and is associated with reduced incidence of osteoporosis, it can be given once daily, therefore, it might have significant benefits compared with unfractionated heparin in at risk pregnancy. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to assess pregnancy outcomes after therapy with traditional aspirin supplemented with LMWH among women who are pregnant experiencing thrombosis-related diseases such as antiphospholipid syndrome (APLA) syndrome and IVF pregnancies. Materials and Methods: It was a retrospective analysis with a purposive sample of 61 pregnant women who had thrombosis risk factors. Thirty of the pregnancies were confirmed cases for APLA syndrome, whereas the other 30 were IVF conceptions. The comorbid factors were older age, a past of miscarriages, nulliparous IVF pregnancy, pre-eclampsia, diabetes, and obesity. IVF pregnancy accompanied with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome was one of the cases. Study participants were administered a regular preventive medication of 40/60 mg s.c. as well as 75/150 mg of oral aspirin. All through gestation, according to patient’s registration weight, were administered every day. Heparin was stopped 24 h before the actual scheduled delivery, while aspirin had been stopped 3–4 days earlier. Results: In this study, 58 live births have been recorded, including 10 cases of preeclampsia, 10 of intrauterine growth retardation, two of eclampsia, two of intrauterine death infants, and two of abortions. There were 18 premature deliveries, nine multiple birth pregnancies, and 35 full-term pregnancies among the live births. There were no cases of HELLP syndrome, placental abruption, and stillbirths. In addition, heparin therapy cured one incidence of post-operative thrombosis of deep veins in pregnancy. It was also observed that early LMWH application to pregnant women with thrombosis risk was able to lower the incidence of miscarriages, gestational fetal death, and decreased weight at birth, and cases of HELLP syndromes. Furthermore, the therapeutic dose in high-risk case of post-delivery deep vein thrombosis of lower extremities cured the mother. Conclusion: It can be concluded from the study that the application of LMWH enhanced the obstetric outcome in pregnant women having increased risk for thrombosis. In future pregnancies with thrombosis risk factors, employing LMWH in conjunction with the documented therapeutic approach may result in a better obstetric outcome.

Avaliação da transferência materno-infantil de anticorpos em pacientes com síndrome antifosfolípide / Evaluation of maternal-child antibody transfer of patients with antiphospholipid syndrome

Introdução: a síndrome antifosfolípide (SAF) é caracterizada por eventos trombóticos e perdas gestacionais de repetição sendo considerada a trombofilia adquirida mais comum. Objetivo: realizar uma revisão narrativa da passagem transplacentária de anticorpos em pacientes com SAF. Metodologia: revisão narrativa da literatura. Resultados: quando não está associada a alguma doença do tecido conectivo é dita primária e quando em associação com lúpus eritematosos sistêmico é dita secundária. A morbidade gestacional é frequente e torna-se de importância avaliar a passagem desses anticorpos transplacentariamente, desde que existem modelos animais da síndrome com transferência passiva desses anticorpos. A passagem transplacentária de anticorpos específicos já foi determinada em estudos, os quais demonstraram baixos níveis destes anticorpos no soro materno, porém uma eficiente passagem transplacentária para o neonato. Conclusão: existem poucos estudos sobre essa passagem materno-infantil em pacientes com SAF, que são aqui revisados.

Introduction: a antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is characterized by thrombotic events and recurrent pregnancy losses and is considered the most common acquired thrombophilia. Objective: to carry out a narrative review of the transplacental passage and antibodies in patients with APS. Methodology: narrative literature review Results: when it is not associated with any connective tissue disease, it is said to be primary and when in association with systemic lupus erythematosus it is said to be secondary. Gestational morbidity is frequent and it is important to evaluate the passage of these antibodies transplacentally, since there are animal models of the syndrome with passive transfer of these antibodies. The transplacental passage of specific antibodies has already been determined in studies, which demonstrated low levels of these antibodies in the maternal serum, but an efficient transplacental passage for the newborn. Conclusion: there are few studies on this maternal-infant passage in patients with APS, which are reviewed here.

Síndrome de Budd Chiari secundario al síndrome antifosfolipídico y lupus eritematoso sistémico en una adolescente: reporte de un caso

El síndrome de Budd-Chiari es causado por una obstrucción del flujo sanguíneo del hígado. Los casos publicados del síndrome antifosfolípido asociado a SBC son limitados en la población pediátrica. Reportamos el caso de una adolescente de 15 años que presentó fiebre, ascitis y hepatoesplenomegalia. En la ecografía Doppler hepática se observó ausencia de flujo en la vena hepática derecha y media, y en la vena cava inferior. En la tomografía abdominal se observó una extensa trombosis de la vena cava inferior. Durante la hospitalización se le diagnosticó SAF y lupus eritematoso sistémico. Se le administró tratamiento con heparina no fraccionada, heparina de bajo peso molecular y anticoagulantes. El síndrome de Budd-Chiari secundario al síndrome antifosfolípido es una enfermedad potencialmente mortal. El diagnóstico y el tratamiento oportunos permiten mejorar la calidad de vida del paciente.

Budd-Chiari syndrome is caused by an obstruction of blood flow to the liver. Published cases of the antiphospholipid syndrome associated with BCS are limited in the pediatric population. We report a 15-year-old adolescent who presented with fever, ascites, and hepatosplenomegaly. Hepatic Doppler ultrasound revealed no flow in the right and middle hepatic veins and in the inferior vena cava. Abdominal tomography revealed extensive thrombosis of the inferior vena cava. During hospitalization, she was diagnosed with antiphospholipid syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus. She was given treatment with unfractionated heparin, low molecular weight heparin, and anticoagulants. Budd-Chiari syndrome secondary to the antiphospholipid syndrome is a life-threatening disease. Timely diagnosis and treatment improve the quality of life of the patient.

Paciente masculino con síndrome antifosfolipídico con compromiso cardiopulmonar y renal. Caso clínico / Male patient with antiphospholipid syndrome with cardiopulmonary and renal involvement. Case report

Objetivo: Analizar el caso clínico de un paciente masculino con síndrome antifosfolipídico con compromiso cardiovascular y renal en el Hospital Regional docente Ambato, detallando factores que provocaron en el paciente el desarrollo de complicaciones y las medidas a tomar para establecer un diagnóstico adecuado y el tratamiento integral. Método: Análisis del caso clínico del paciente masculino de 28 años de edad. Resultados y conclusiones: En el caso clínico expuesto; el estado de hipercoagulabilidad del paciente causó patologías tromboembólicas en diferentes niveles de aparatos y sistemas; estos fueron: trombosis pulmonar aguda que se complicó al presentar el paciente una NAC, trombos en la aurícula derecha, hipertensión pulmonar y trombocitopenia. Los criterios clásicos que deben estar presentes en el síndrome antifosfolípido son: presencia de anticuerpos anticardiolipina o anticoagulante lúpico, las complicaciones trombóticas, y si la paciente es de sexo femenino se incluyen un criterio extra que son los abortos espontáneos.

Objective: To analyze the clinical case of a male patient with antiphospholipid syndrome with cardiovascular and renal involvement at the Hospital Regional docente Ambato, detailing factors that caused the development of complications in the patient and the measures to be taken to establish an adequate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment. Methods: Analysis of the clinical case of a 28-year-old male patient. Results and conclusions: In the clinical case presented; the hypercoagulable state of the patient caused thromboembolic pathologies at different levels of apparatus and systems; these were: acute pulmonary thrombosis which was complicated by the patient presenting with CAP, thrombi in the right atrium, pulmonary hypertension and thrombocytopenia. The classic criteria that must be present in antiphospholipid syndrome are: presence of anticardiolipin antibodies or lupus anticoagulant, thrombotic complications, and if the patient is female an extra criterion is included which are spontaneous abortions.

The 492nd case: recurrent thrombosis, thrombocytopenia / 中华内科杂志

A 43-year-old female patient was admitted with recurrent thrombosis for more than 2 years and thrombocytopenia for more than 1 year. Both arterial and venous thromboses developed especially at rare sites even during anticoagulation therapy such as cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Antinuclear antibody, anti-ENA antibody and antiphospholipid antibody were all negative. Platelet count elevated to normal after high dose glucocorticoid and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). Immune thrombocytopenia was suspected. When 4 grade thrombocytopenia recurred, intravenous heparin, rituximab 600 mg, IVIG and eltrombopag were administrated. After 3 weeks, thrombocytopenia did not improve, and new thrombosis developed instead. Screening of thrombophilia related genes revealed PROS1 gene heterozygous mutation and MTHFR TT genotype. Low amount of serum IgG κ monoclonal protein was detected. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia was differentiated and excluded. Finally, serum negative antiphospholipid syndrome was considered the most likely diagnosis. Dexamethasone 20 mg/day × 4 days combined with sirolimus 2 mg/day was prescribed. The patient was discharged with low molecular weight heparin. At one month, her headache was greatly relieved. The platelet count raised to 20-30×10 9/L, and no new thrombosis or bleeding was reported.

Sudden chest pain, painful swelling left lower limb and malar erythema / 中华风湿病学杂志

Objective:To improve the understanding of the relationship between antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).Methods:The clinical characteristics and process of diagnosis and treatment of a case was reported and analyzed. This patient was initially diagnosed as antiphospholipid syndrome and later developed new skin lesion and positive anti-dsDNA antibody, which made the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus.Results:A 15-year-old girl suffered acute pulmonary embolism, lower extremity deep vein thrombosis, and high titer of anti-phospholipid antibody, but negative for other autoantibodies. So primary antiphospholipid syndrome was diagnosed. Symptoms were improved after thrombolysis and anticoa-gulation treatment. During the follow-up period, the patient developed malar erythema, lymphocytopenia, proteinuria, positive ANA, anti-dsDNA antibody, and reduced complement level. So she was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus. After glucocorticoid pulse therapy and immunosuppressants treatment, the symptoms were relieved and lupus disease activity was decreased.Conclusion:A few primary APS patients can progress into SLE. Patients with risk factors such as a younger age of onset, positive ANA and positive Coomb's test results should be closely followed up.

Inflammatory response involved in antiphospholipid syndrome and related diagnosis and treatment protocols / 中华检验医学杂志

Current laboratory testing methods of antiphospholipid syndrome(APS) can not satisfy the clinical need for diagnosis and treatment. Inflammation plays an important role in the development of APS. The comprehensive effect of varieties of immune cells, molecular systems, and cytokines renders the body in a pro-inflammatory state. Understanding the inflammatory mechanisms in the pathogenesis of APS is conductive to achieving individualized treatment and improving the efficacy of APS patients. In this article, the inflammation mechanisms and related diagnosis and treatment protocols involved in APS are summarized, aiming to provide reference for the clinical treatment of APS.