Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Cause of APS

What causes antiphospholipid syndrome?

The cause of antiphospholipid syndrome is not completely known. Antiphospholipid antibodies reduce the levels of annexin V, a protein that binds phospholipids and has potent clot-blocking (anticoagulant) activity. The reduction of annexin V levels is thought to be a possible mechanism underlying the increased tendency of blood to clot and the propensity to pregnancy loss characteristic of the antiphospholipid syndrome.

Antiphospholipid antibodies, such as anticardiolipin, have also been associated with decreased levels of prostacyclin, a chemical that prevents the clumping together of normal blood clotting elements called platelets.

1 comment:

  1. Very informative. I've had APS for 13 yrs and I was deemed as "coumadin resistant" and I also am on Lovenox and SO thankful for it. I hope we can get to know each other. Email me if you can. Are you on facebook?

    Carol

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