AntiphospholipidAntikörper

Antiphospholipid antibodies, often abbreviated as aPL, are a group of autoantibodies that target phospholipids and phospholipid-binding proteins. These antibodies can be found in the blood of individuals with certain autoimmune diseases, most notably antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). While their presence can be associated with APS, they can also be found in healthy individuals, making their detection and interpretation complex.

The presence of aPL is a key diagnostic criterion for APS. These antibodies are associated with an increased risk of blood clots (thrombosis) in both arteries and veins, as well as pregnancy-related complications such as recurrent miscarriages, preeclampsia, and placental insufficiency. The exact mechanism by which aPL lead to these complications is not fully understood but is thought to involve interference with the normal blood clotting process and damage to the cells lining blood vessels.

Commonly tested antiphospholipid antibodies include lupus anticoagulant (LA), anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL), and anti-beta-2-glycoprotein I antibodies (anti-β2GPI). A diagnosis of APS requires the presence of at least one of these antibodies on two separate occasions at least 12 weeks apart, along with clinical evidence of thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity. Management of individuals with aPL and APS typically involves anticoagulant therapy to prevent blood clots. Further research is ongoing to better understand the pathogenesis and optimal treatment strategies for conditions associated with antiphospholipid antibodies.