ABSTRACT
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disease characterized clinically by thrombotic or obstetric morbidities and associated with the presence of circulating antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies. APS-related thrombosis may manifest in virtually any arterial or venous vascular bed. Existing literature describing the association of aPL antibodies with the clinical criteria for APS has significant limitations. These limitations pertain to the variety and number of aPL antibody tests used, the definition of positive results, the methods of establishing thresholds for positive results, the lack of confirmatory testing in many studies, and the nature of the study designs. Preconception assessment should include determination of aPL antibody status, keeping in mind that the diagnosis of definite APS requires repeated positive test results meeting international criteria as determined at least 12 weeks apart. Optimal management of APS during pregnancy would minimize the risks of adverse maternal and fetal/neonatal outcomes. Obstetric morbidity in women diagnosed with APS varies depending upon patient history and laboratory features.
