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Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome

Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is a blood-clotting disorder that makes the blood clot too easily. This can lead to mild or severe blood-clotting complications, including miscarriage, serious pregnancy problems, stroke, heart problems, and blood clots in the legs or lungs.

Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is caused by antibodies. The body normally makes antibodies that attack a dangerous substance in the body, like bacteria or a virus. Instead, antiphospholipid antibodies attack molecules that keep the blood from clotting too much.

Antiphospholipid antibodies can be detected with a blood test. Once diagnosed, this condition is usually treated with blood-thinning medicine. Treatment and close monitoring are needed during pregnancy.

Author Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Author Ralph Poore
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Michele Cronen
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Associate Editor Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Stanford M. Shoor, MD
- Rheumatology
Last Updated May 17, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 17, 2006
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