Autoimmunity reviews
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Autoimmunity reviews · Dec 2006
ReviewNew subsets of the antiphospholipid syndrome in 2006: "PRE-APS" (probable APS) and microangiopathic antiphospholipid syndromes ("MAPS").
The concept of "probable" antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is almost identical with several conditions which may presage the development of the APS with its major complications of large vessel thromboses resulting in deep vein occlusions in the lower limbs (DVT) particularly and strokes. These conditions comprising livedo reticularis, chorea, thrombocytopenia, fetal loss and valve lesions. These conditions, comprising livedo reticularis, chorea, thrombocytopenia, fetal loss and valve lesions may be followed, often years later by diagnosable APS. ⋯ Patients with catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) who do not demonstrate large vessel occlusions also fall into this group. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) has also been reported with demonstrable antiphospholipid antibodies and also manifests severe thrombocytopenia and small vessel occlusions. It may cause problems in differential diagnosis.