Antiphospholipid syndrome: etiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic methods, treatment

Antiphospholipid syndrome: etiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic methods, treatment

D.A. Baldanova

St. Petersburg City Outpatient Clinic No. 23, St. Petersburg

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies and clinical manifestations such as thrombosis of various localizations, obstetric complications, and thrombocytopenia. Approximately 1% of patients with APS develop catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS). Despite significant progress in the study of APS, many aspects of its pathogenesis and treatment remain a subject of debate, underscoring the necessity for further research aimed at developing personalized therapeutic strategies. This review discusses current concepts regarding the etiological factors and pathogenic mechanisms underlying APS, as well as up-to-date diagnostic methods for timely identification and prevention of severe disease complications. Special attention is given to the molecular mechanisms of thrombus formation, the role of β2-glycoprotein I in APS pathogenesis, and a comprehensive approach to laboratory and instrumental diagnostics. The review presents data on primary and secondary APS, CAPS, and outlines the current diagnostic criteria for this disorder. Contemporary approaches to APS management are also reviewed.

Keywords: antiphospholipid syndrome, antiphospholipid antibodies, β2-glycoprotein I, lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin antibodies, thrombosis, obstetric complications, thrombocytopenia.

For citation: Baldanova D.A. Antiphospholipid syndrome: etiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic methods, treatment. RMJ. 2025;6:30–34. DOI: 10.32364/2225-2282-2025-6-6