ARDS AND ADRENAL INSUFFICIENCY ASSOCIATED WITH THE ANTIPHOSPHOLIPID ANTIBODY SYNDROME

The antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) is typically characterize d by recurrent arterial and/or venous thromboses. miscarriages, and th rombocytopenia. There have been five reported cases of ARDS associated with primary APS. Adrenal insufficiency has also been reported as a r are complication of APS. We report a case of both ARDS and adrenal ins ufficiency associated with primary APS. Chest radiographs and pulmonar y angiography studies revealed findings consistent with ARDS. CT scans confirmed the presence of bilateral adrenal hemorrhagic infarction. P atients with APS are at an increased risk of widespread vascular throm bosis due to the presence of circulating antiphospholipid antibodies. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing APS and its potenti al for multiple organ system involvement.