ABSTRACT
Autoantibodies produced against platelets, red cells and neutrophils causing a circulating cytopenia may be formed in association with a variety of pathological processes which alter the normal immune response, including the anti-phospholipid syndrome. Thrombocytopenia appears to be a frequent finding in patients with anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPL) in autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and the “primary” anti-phospholipid syndrome.17 Nevertheless, platelet counts low enough to cause spontaneous bleeding episodes are relatively rare. The nature of antibodies binding to platelets in SLE and in the “primary” anti-phospholipid syndrome is not yet completely determined. The simultaneous occurrence of antiplatelet antibodies and a circulating LA in patients with autoimmune thrombocytopenia led to the hypothesis that aPL may be causing that phenomena. Leukopenia is a well recognized complication of SLE and is particularly associated with immunosuppressive therapy.
