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Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) Signs and Symptoms

Antiphospholipid syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly produces antibodies to certain proteins in the blood.    Antiphospholipid syndrome causes blood clots to form in both arteries and veins, and it causes pregnancy-related conditions such as pre-eclampsia, miscarriages, stillbirth or pre-term delivery. We have put together a list of common signs and symptoms of Antiphospholipid Syndrome below.

Also, we have information on diagnosis, helpful books and valuable resources for patients.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS)

  • Blood clots in any organ or system
  • Blood clots in your legs
  • Blood clots in your lungs
  • Headaches
  • Migraines
  • Complications of pregnancy such as miscarriage, stillbirth, pre-eclampsia and premature delivery
  • Seizure
  • Rash
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Small red spots in the skin
  • Bleeding from the nose and gums
  • Cognitive problems

The signs and symptoms of antiphospholipid syndrome depend on where the clots travel to in the body.  Blood clots in your legs cause deep vein thrombosis, blood clots in your lungs can cause pulmonary embolism, and blood clots in your brain can cause seizures and cognitive disorders.

Diagnosis of Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS)

If you have blood clots in our legs or have had repeated miscarriages, a doctor can perform a blood test that tests for antibodies in your blood.  The tests must show the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies at least twice in two tests, done twelve weeks apart.

Books For People With Signs and Symptoms of Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS)

Antiphospholipid Syndrome – A Medical Dictionary, Bibliography, and Annotated Research Guide to Internet References
ICON Health Publications		 Positive Options for Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS): Self-Help and Treatment
Triona Holden


The Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Ronald A. Asherson		 Sticky Blood
Kay Thackray

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) Resources

General Patient Resources

  • APS Foundation of America, Inc.

Founded in June 2005, the APS Foundation of America, Inc. is dedicated to fostering and facilitating joint efforts in the areas of education, support, research, patient services and public awareness of Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome in an effective and ethical manner.

http://www.apsfa.org/aps.htm

  • The APS Friends and Support Forum

This is an open forum for people who have Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome, friends, family and caregivers.

http://www.apsforum.com

  • About.com – Rare Diseases

Information on Antiphospholipid Syndrome by Mary Kugler, RN.

http://rarediseases.about.com/od/rarediseasesa/a/120504.htm

Medical Organizations

  • Netdoctor

    http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/antiphospholipid.htm
  • Mayo Clinic

    Comprehensive overview covers causes, treatment of this disorder that may affect pregnancy.

    http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/antiphospholipid-syndrome/DS00921
  • Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine

    Article on Antiphospholipid Syndrome

    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1279937/