MECHANISMS OF ACTION OF ANTIPHOSPHOLIPID ANTIBODIES IN THE ANTIPHOSPHOLIPID SYNDROME

Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) is characterized by autoantib odies against negatively charged phospholipids in the serum, and clini cally by multiple thromboses, thrombocytopenia, and recurrent fetal lo ss. The mechanism(s) by which the antibodies cause the clinical pictur e are not clear. We review the possible mechanisms of action of antiph ospholipid (aPL) antibodies. Apparently, aPL antibodies act by interfe ring with coagulation, involving both endothelial cells, platelets, an d humoral components, and affect pregnancy outcome by interfering with embryo implantation and fetal development.