About Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome (APS):
- It is a rare autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly makes certain abnormal antibodies that attack tissues in the body.
- These antibodies target proteins attached to fat molecules (phospholipids), which makes the blood more likely to clot.
- APS can cause blood clots to form in arteries and veins.
- Blood clots can form in the legs, lungs, and other organs, such as the kidneys and spleen.
- The clots can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other conditions.
- During pregnancy, APS also can result in miscarriage and stillbirth.
- Some people who have the antibodies may not have any symptoms.
- There's no cure for this uncommon condition, but medicines can reduce the risk of blood clots and miscarriage.
- It is more common in women than in men.
- Having another autoimmune condition, such as systemic lupus erythematosus or other connective tissue diseases, increases the risk of APS.
