UNDERSTANDING PROSTAGLANDIN METABOLITES AND PLATELET-ACTIVATING-FACTOR IN THE PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND TREATMENT OF THE ANTIPHOSPHOLIPID SYNDROME

Prostaglandin metabolites, including thromboxane, prostacyclin, and pl atelet-activating factor, may participate as intermediaries in the pat hophysiology of the primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS). In order to determine safe and effective therapies for patients with PAPS, we must improve our knowledge base and specific understanding of the mech anisms that link circulating antiphospholipid antibodies to decidual v asculopathy and fetal death. A review of current research is presented along with an evaluation of medical therapy whose rationale for use i s consistent with current evidence.