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APS - Neurology Related
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Antiphospholipid Antibodies and Stroke in Young Women |
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Stroke. 2002;33:2396. © 2002 American
Heart Association, Inc. Conclusions— The results from this
study support the importance of antiphospholipid antibodies
as an independent risk factor for stroke in young women. |
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Antiphospholipid Antibodies and Subsequent Thrombo-occlusive
Events in Patients With Ischemic Stroke |
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JAMA. 2004;291:576-584. |
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Antiphospholipid antibodies in cerebral ischemia. |
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Stroke. 1991 Jun;22(6):750-3. |
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Antiphospholipid antibodies in young adults with stroke. |
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J Thromb Thrombolysis. 2005
Oct;20(2):105-12. CONCLUSIONS: Antiphospholipid antibodies,
particularly Lupus Anticoagulant, is an independent risk
factor for first and possibly recurrent ischemic stroke in
young adults. The best therapeutic strategy for preventing
antiphospholipid antibody-associated recurrent stroke is not
clear. |
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ANTIPHOSPHOLIPID ANTIBODIES SYNDROME (APS) ASSOCIATED WITH
HYPERHOMOCYSTEINEMIA RELATED TO MTHFR GENE C677T AND A1298C
HETEROZYGOUS MUTATIONS IN A YOUNG MAN WITH IDIOPATHIC
HYPOPARATHYROIDISM (DIGEORGE SYNDROME) |
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Journal of Clinical Endocrinology &
Metabolism 2006, 10.1210/jc.2005-2782. Conclusions: APS,
revealed by anti-beta-2-glycoprotein (anti-2-GPI) and anti-prothrombin
(anti-PT) antibodies positivity, and moderate HHcy related
to heterozygous C677T and A1298C point mutations of the
MTHFR gene, were identified as a possible cause of
thrombotic disorder responsible for the widespread presence
of cutaneous and cerebral lesions. |
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Antiphospholipid antibodies syndrome in 'Stroke in young'. |
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Mehndiratta MM, Bhattacharya A, Gupta M,
Khawaja GK, Puri V. Antiphospholipid antibodies syndrome in
'Stroke in young'. Neurol India 1999;47:122-6 Promotes an
INR of greater than 3.0. |
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Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome manifested as a
postoperative cerebrovascular event in a child. |
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South Med J. 2000 Nov;93(11):1115-9. |
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Antiphospholipid syndrome and stroke |
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Rinsho Shinkeigaku. 2005
Nov;45(11):852-5. Antiphospholipid syndrome is characterized
by arterial or venous thrombosis, and the presence of
antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). APL are considered to be
a cause of an acquired hypercoagulable state leading to
stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA). We examined the
causes in 50 young patients with ischemic stroke. The most
prevalent cause was atherosclerosis and the incidence of APS
was 12.5%. APL comprise a heterogeneous group of
autoantibodies, such as beta2-glycoprotein I dependent
anticardiolipin antibody (beta2-GPIaCL), lupus anticoagulant
(LA), and other antiphospholid-protein antibodies. We
examined the incidence and the pathogenic role of
antiphospholipid protein antibodies. The subjects comprised
250 patients (155 male, 95 females) with ischemic stroke,
aged 26 to 92 years (mean 72 years). We measured beta2-GPI
aCL, IgG aCL, LA, phosphatidyserine dependent
antiprothrtombin antibody (PS-PT), antiphosphatidyl-serine
antibody (PS), antiphosphatidyl-inositol antibody (PI) in
each patient. The incidence of beta2-GPI aCL, IgG aCL, LA,
phosphatidyserine, PS-PT, PS, and PI was 2.8%, 12%, 9.2%,
7.2%, 9.6%, and 8.8%, respectively. The incidence of young
stroke patients under 50 years was 5.2%. Among 13 young
stroke patients, 5 had SLE. Among 23 patients with LA., 18
(78%) patients had PS-PT. Anti-PS-PT antibody is closely
related to LA. Antinuclear antibody was detected in 79% of
the patients with aPS and/or aPI. We compared the carotid
ultrasonographic findings in positive aPI or aPS patients
with those in negative ones. Increased IMT, plaque score and
carotid stenosis were more common in aPI and aPS-positive
patients than in negative ones Three of 5 patients who
showed positive beta2-GPI, aCL and LA, simulataneously, had
sysyemic lupus erythematosus as an immulological background.
Two of 3 patients with PI and/or PS and beta2-GPI and/or LA
were patients with SLE. Antiphospholipid antibody was
considered to be a risk factor of stroke, especially in SLE
and/or young female patients. The incidence of lupus
anticoagulant is more common than beta2-GPI aCL in ischemic
stroke. In SLE patients with stroke,
multi-antiphospholipid-protein antibodies was inclined to be
present. LA is closely related to ant-PS-PT and aPI and aPS
are associated with anti-nuclear antibody and precipitation
of atherosclerosis. |
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Antiphospholipid-Protein Antibodies and Ischemic Stroke |
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(Stroke. 1998;29:1755-1758.) © 1998
American Heart Association, Inc. |
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APS and MS |
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Association of antiphospholipid antibodies with central
nervous system disease in systemic lupus erythematosus. |
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Am J Med. 1995 Oct;99(4):397-401. |
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Brain vascular changes in the case of primary
antiphospholipid syndrome. |
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Folia Neuropathol. 1996;34(2):92-6.
Morphological picture of arterial fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD)
of carotid and cerebral arteries associated with
intracranial aneurysm and thrombotic small vessel
vasculopathy in a 34-year-old woman with primary
antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) is presented. The patient
died because of hemorrhage caused by aneurysm rupture. In
the walls of the aneurysm and aneurysmal dilatation of
middle cerebral artery dysplastic changes of FMD type were
found. The case fulfills the clinical and serological
criteria of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Microscopic
examination of the brain showed occlusion of small cerebral
vessels, characteristic for antiphospholipid syndrome. It
was caused by fibrin thrombi and endothelial proliferation
or fibrous webs in the vessel lumen. Neither features of
systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) nor related autoimmune
diseases were observed in the morphological examination of
the brain, skin and internal organs. Therefore, it was
feasible to confirm the diagnosis of PAPS in the patient
with FMD of the large cephalic arteries. |
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Can neurologic manifestations of Hughes (antiphospholipid)
syndrome be distinguished from multiple sclerosis? Analysis
of 27 patients and review of the literature. |
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Medicine (Baltimore). 2000
Jan;79(1):57-68. |
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Central nervous system involvement in the antiphospholipid
(Hughes) syndrome |
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Rheumatology 2003; 42: 200-213. The
antiphospholipid (Hughes) syndrome (APS) is characterized by
arterial and/or venous thrombosis and pregnancy morbidity in
the presence of anticardiolipin antibodies and/or lupus
anticoagulant. APS can occur either as a primary disorder or
secondary to a connective tissue disease, most frequently
systemic lupus erythematosus. Central nervous system (CNS)
involvement is one of the most prominent clinical
manifestations of APS, and includes arterial and venous
thrombotic events, psychiatric features and a variety of
other non-thrombotic neurological syndromes. In this review
we focus on the common and some of the less common CNS
manifestations that have been reported in association with
antiphospholipid antibodies. |
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Cerebral microembolism, a disease marker for ischemic
cerebrovascular events in the antiphospholipid syndrome of
systemic lupus erythematosus? |
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Acta Neurol Scand. 1999 Jun;99(6):356-61.
CONCLUSION: MES may be related to disease activity in
patients with SLE and APS. Their detection may help to
assess individual cerebrovascular risk and contribute to
therapeutic decision making and therapeutic monitoring. |
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Cerebrovascular disease and antiphospholipid antibodies in
systemic lupus erythematosus, lupus-like disease, and the
primary antiphospholipid syndrome. |
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Am J Med. 1989 Apr;86(4):391-9. |
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Chorea and antiphospholipid antibodies: Treatment with
methotrexate |
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Neurology 2001;56:137-138. © 2001
American Academy of Neurology. |
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Cognitive Deficits in Patients With Antiphospholipid
Syndrome |
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Arch Intern Med. 2006;166:2278-2284.
Conclusions Cognitive deficits may often be found among
patients with APS, independent of any history of central
nervous system involvement. Livedo reticularis and the
presence of white matter lesions on brain magnetic resonance
imaging are associated with an increased risk for cognitive
dysfunction in APS. |
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Dementia associated with the antiphospholipid syndrome:
clinical and radiological characteristics of 30 patients |
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Rheumatology Advance Access originally
published online on September 14, 2004. Rheumatology 2005
44(1):95-99; doi:10.1093/rheumatology/keh408. |
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Factor V Leiden and Antiphospholipid Antibodies Are
Significant Risk Factors for Ischemic Stroke in Children |
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Stroke. 2000;31:1283. © 2000 American
Heart Association, Inc. |
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Features Associated with Epilepsy in the Antiphospholipid
Syndrome |
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J Rheumatol 2004;31:1344-8. Conclusion.
Epilepsy is common in APS and most of the risk seems to be
linked to vascular disease as manifested by extensive CNS
involvement, valvulopathy, and livedo reticularis and to the
presence of SLE. These factors, however, explain only part
of the increased occurrence of epilepsy in APS and other
causes such as direct immune interaction in the brain should
be investigated. |
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Hemidystonia symptomatic of primary antiphospholipid
syndrome in childhood. |
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Mov Disord. 1993 Jul;8(3):383-6. We
suggest that PAPS must always be considered when isolated or
recurrent focal cerebral ischaemia, and particularly
hemidystonia, occur in childhood. |
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Hypoperfusion of brain single photon emission computerized
tomography in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies. |
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J Dermatol Sci. 1997 Jan;14(1):20-8.
Hypoperfusion areas might be caused by microarterial
thrombosis, microvenous thrombosis or vascular spasms. Early
detection of cerebral abnormalities allows steps to be taken
to protect against irreversible progress of cerebral blood
flow. Therefore, brain SPECT should be performed in patients
with antiphospholipid antibodies. |
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Low dose aspirin after ischemic stroke associated with
antiphospholipid syndrome |
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Neurology 2003;61:111-114 © 2003 American
Academy of Neurology |
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Management of the neurological manifestations of APS--what
do the trials tell us? |
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Thromb Res. 2004;114(5-6):489-99.
CONCLUSIONS: (1) aPL are a risk factor for incident stroke
(Grade A, established as useful for the given condition in
the specified population). (2) The evidence to support the
role of aPL in recurrent stroke is conflicting and,
therefore, inconclusive. (3) Warfarin at moderate-intensity
doses is equally effective in preventing a recurrent
thrombotic event as warfarin at high-intensity doses in
patients with APS (Grade A evidence, established as useful
for the given condition in the specified population). (4)
Warfarin, at moderate-intensity doses is as effective as
aspirin (at a dose of 325 mg/day) in preventing recurrent
thrombotic events in patients who are aPL-positive at the
time of an initial stroke (Grade B evidence, probably useful
for the given condition in the given population). (5)
Currently there are no data to support the use of any
prophylactic therapy in patients with aPL and no clinical
manifestations for the purposes of preventing an incident
stroke. |
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Migraine in Hughes syndrome—heparin as a therapeutic trial? |
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Q J Med 2001; 94: 114-115 © 2001
Association of Physicians |
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Migraine, memory loss, and "multiple sclerosis ".
Neurological features of the antiphospholipid (Hughes’)
syndrome |
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Postgraduate Medical Journal
2003;79:81-83 © 2003 Fellowship of Postgraduate Medicine |
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Multiple sclerosis, neuropsychiatric lupus and
antiphospholipid syndrome: where do we stand? |
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|
Rheumatology Advance Access originally
published online on January 11, 2005 Rheumatology 2005
44(4):434-442; doi:10.1093/rheumatology/keh532 Rheumatology
Vol. 44 No. 4 © British Society for Rheumatology 2005. A
trial of anticoagulation might be worthwhile in some
patients with atypical MS and consistently positive aPL. |
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Neurological involvement as a poor prognostic factor in
catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome: autopsy findings in
12 cases |
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Source: Lupus, Volume 12, Number 2, 1
February 2003, pp. 93-98(6) |
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Neurometabolite Markers of Cerebral Injury in the
Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome of Systemic Lupus
Erythematosus |
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Stroke. 1998;29:2254-2260. |
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Recurrent acute transverse myelopathy: Association with
antiphospholipid antibody syndrome |
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Shaharao V, Bartakke S, Muranjan MN,
Bavdekar MS, Bavdekar SB, Udani1 VP. Recurrent acute
transverse myelopathy: Association with antiphospholipid
antibody syndrome. Indian J Pediatr 2004;71:559-561 |
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Some considerations about the possible pathological
mechanisms at work in antiphospholipid syndrome and stroke |
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Rev Neurol. 2003 Oct 1-15;37(7):654-7.
INTRODUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT: Over the last two decades
antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) has started to be recognized
from the association of apparently anionic phospholipid-specific
antibodies with thrombosis, thrombocytopenia and recurrent
foetal losses. This syndrome affects patients with systemic
lupus erythematosus and is considered to be an important
cause of thromboembolic disease. Antiphospholipid antibodies
are serum immunoglobulins that react with negatively charged
phospholipids, albeit directly or by means of a cofactor,
affect the coagulation system, and promote thrombosis.
Recent research has been directed towards gaining an
understanding of the mechanisms by which these antibodies
are able to play a direct role in the pathophysiology of
thrombosis, and the extent to which certain risk factors,
such as smoking, high blood pressure, lipid disorders and so
on, exert an influence over the expression of phospholipids
in the cerebral endothelium. CONCLUSION: These antibodies
have no single mechanism of action; different authors have
described different pathological mechanisms, which help us
to understand the heterogeneous clinical manifestations of
APS. |
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Stroke and antiphospholipid syndrome: the treatment debate |
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Rheumatology Advance Access originally
published online on April 19, 2005 Rheumatology 2005
44(8):971-974; doi:10.1093/rheumatology/keh666 |
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The Antiphospholipid Syndrome and "Multiple Sclerosis" |
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The blood disease that mimics MS - Hughes Syndrome |
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How APS can mimic MS. |
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Thrombotic cerebral arteriopathy in patients with the
antiphospholipid syndrome. |
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Mod Pathol. 1993 Nov;6(6):644-53.
CONCLUSIONS: The cerebrovascular changes of the
antiphospholipid syndrome are derived from a chronic
thrombotic microangiopathy. The findings support the
hypothesis that antiphospholipid antibodies can cause
recurring episodes of intravascular thrombosis. |
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Top of Page |
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APS - Opthalmology Related
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A case of optic neuritis associated with anticardiolipin
antibodies |
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Rinsho Shinkeigaku. 1992 Mar;32(3):330-2.
We reported a case of optic neuritis with the persistence of
severe visual loss and central scotoma in a 26-year-old
woman who was proven to have biologic false positive test
for syphilis, and the elevated serum titres of IgG and IgM
anticardiolipin antibodies. C.S.F. findings showed the
absence of oligoclonal bands and the presence of IgM
anticardiolipin antibody. She was treated twice at intervals
of two weeks with methylprednisolone 1000 mg intravenously
daily for three days (pulse therapy), and was started on
oral prednisolone 60 mg daily which tapered gradually. After
the second treatment of the pulse therapy, her visual acuity
was improved remarkably and the titre of anticardiolipin
antibodies became normal. Her clinical course seemed to be
different from that of the optic neuritis of multiple
sclerosis, in which many of patients recover near normal
visual acuity after a first attack. We suggested that
antiphospholipid antibodies might play a role in the
etiology of her optic neuritis. |
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Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome |
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The most common ocular pathology is
thrombosis with resultant ischemia. This manifests as
central retinal vein or artery occlusion (CRVO or CRAO),
anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION), transient
ischemic attack (TIA), amaurosis fugax, isolated retinal
hemorrhages and cotton wool spots, and retinal
neovascularization. While these conditions typically occur
in the elderly, APAS patients may experience them earlier in
life. Besides the ocular manifestations, thrombi often
affect other systems. Venous thromboses of the arm and leg,
sagital, pelvic, mesenteric, portal and axillary vessels,
and pulmonary embolism have all been encountered in APAS.
With thrombosis in the arterial system, cerebrovascular
accidents have also occurred. Thrombocytopenia (reduced
platelet count) may also occur in these patients. |
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Bilateral retinal vascular occlusion during antiphospholipid
antibody syndrome: a case report |
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J Fr Ophtalmol. 2005 May;28(5):503-7
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Central retinal artery or vein
occlusion in a young patient must suggest the diagnosis of
antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. The bilateralism of
vascular occlusion is considered a severe factor because of
its consequence on functional ocular and vital prognosis,
where it can sound the alarm to the extension of thrombotic
events to other vessels in the body. Antiphospholipid
syndrome must be studied in cases of severe retinal vascular
occlusion in young patients. Its diagnosis is important
because the risk of recurrent thrombotic events may endanger
functional and vital prognosis. |
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Central retinal venous occlusion with co-existent thrombotic
thrombocytopenic purpura and antiphospholipid syndrome |
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British Journal of Ophthalmology
2003;87:658-659 © 2003 BMJ Publishing Group |
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Handbook of Ocular Disease Management Antiphospholipid
Syndrome |
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Patients with antiphospholipid antibody
syndrome (APAS) tend to be under age 50 and female. Up to 2%
of women may have antiphospholipid antibodies. Many will
also have lupus or other autoimmune diseases. |
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Ocular symptoms in association with antiphospholipid
antibodies. |
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Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 1998
Sep;236(9):658-68 CONCLUSIONS: We did not find a clear
correlation between APA activity or the immunoglobulin
classes in the individual and the severity of the ocular
disease. The benefit from a therapy with the antiplatelet
agent acetylsalicylic acid was evident in a reduction of the
patients' transient visual disturbances and, in most cases,
no further progression of permanent visual field defects was
observed. |
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Ophthalmic signs in antiphospholipid syndrome. Patient
description |
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Klin Oczna. 2004;106(4-5):661-3
CONCLUSIONS: presented characteristic general and ophthalmic
signs point to APS. |
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Primary antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and retinal
occlusive vasculopathy. |
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Am J Ophthalmol. 1997 Jun;123(6):848-50
CONCLUSIONS: In retinal vascular occlusions of unexplained
origin, antiphospholipid antibodies may play an important
role in the pathogenesis. Detecting these antibodies in the
serum of patients with retinal vascular occlusion helps
determine the appropriate treatment with long-term oral
anticoagulants. |
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Retinal vein occlusion in two patients with primary
antiphospholipid syndrome. |
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Korean J Intern Med. 2001 Dec;16(4):274-6 |
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Review of severe vaso-occlusive retinopathy in systemic
lupus erythematosus and the antiphospholipid syndrome:
associations, visual outcomes, complications and treatment. |
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Clin Experiment Ophthalmol. 2004
Feb;32(1):87-100 Conclusion: Severe vaso-occlusive
retinopathy is a rare form of retinopathy in SLE often
associated with poor visual prognosis and neovascularization.
It may be a manifestation of the antiphospholipid syndrome.
Treatment is aimed at preventing further thrombosis and
complications arising from neovascularization. |
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Sudden painless unilateral vision loss caused by branch
retinal artery occlusion: implications for the primary care
physician. |
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Am J Med Sci. 2004 Jan;327(1):44-6 |
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Visual disturbances and pathologic ocular findings in
primary antiphospholipid syndrome. |
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Ophthalmology. 1999 Aug;106(8):1537-40
CONCLUSIONS: Ocular involvement in PAS is uncommon.
Transient visual disturbances are common, although most of
them are related to central nervous system rather than
ocular ischemia. Pathologic ophthalmic findings are unlikely
to be found in asymptomatic patients or in patients with
transient visual disturbances. Routine retinal
fluoroangiography performed on patients with PAS is
unproductive. |
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Top of Page |
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APS - Other
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A cross-sectional study of clinical thrombotic risk factors
and preventive treatments in antiphospholipid syndrome |
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Rheumatology 2002; 41: 924-929 © 2002
British Society for Rheumatology. Conclusion. While
traditional risk factors were similar between groups,
pregnancy and surgical procedures increased the risk of
thrombosis. Hypertension and smoking were associated with
arterial events. Possessing a combination of risk factors
may increase the occurrence of arterial thrombosis but not
venous thrombosis. Use of aspirin and/or hydroxychloroquine
may be protective against thrombosis in asymptomatic
aPL-positive individuals. |
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Abdominal Thrombotic and Ischemic Manifestations of the
Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome: CT Findings in 42
Patients1 |
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Radiology. 2001;218:768-771. CONCLUSION:
Patients who have circulating antiphospholipid antibodies
are at risk for major abdominal vascular thromboses and
organ infarction. Radiologists must be familiar with this
syndrome; they may be the first physicians to suggest the
diagnosis on the basis of findings of unusual or recurrent
sites of thrombosis, especially in young patients. |
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Adrenal failure followed by status epilepticus and hemolytic
anemia in primary antiphospholipid syndrome |
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Thrombosis Journal 2005, 3:6.
doi:10.1186/1477-9560-3-6. Published: 18 April 2005.
Conclusion: Adrenal failure is a rare complication of APS in
children with only five cases reported to date. As shown in
our patient, this syndrome can manifest in a diverse set of
simultaneously occurring symptoms. |
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An unusual cause of acute abdominal pain – A case
presentation |
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BMC Blood Disorders 2006, 6:1
doi:10.1186/1471-2326-6-1. Conclusion: This case presented
to us as an acute abdominal pain. Subsequent investigations
revealed the presence of splenic infarction. Coagulation
risk factors for thrombosis proved negative. Haematological
investigations revealed the presence of anticardiolipin
antibodies at the first instance but subsequent
determinations were negative. Hence, it mimicked Hughes
syndrome initially but the criteria for temporal persistence
of anticardiolipin antibody was not fulfilled. Unusual
surgical presentation of a thrombotic abnormality as
abdominal pain due to splenic infarction. |
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Anti-phospholipid reactivity against cardiolipin metabolites
occurring during endothelial cell apoptosis |
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Arthritis Research & Therapy 2006, 8:R180
doi:10.1186/ar2091. We have recently shown that cardiolipin
(CL) and its metabolites move from mitochondria to other
cellular membranes during death receptor-mediated apoptosis.
In this study we investigate the immunoreactivity to CL
derivatives occurring during endothelial apoptosis in
patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic
lupus erythematosus (SLE). We compared the serum
immunoreactivity to CL to that of its derivatives
monolysocardiolipin (MCL), dilysocardiolipin (DCL), and
hydrocardiolipin (HCL), by means of both enzyme-linked
immunosorbent assay and thin layer chromatography (TLC)
immunostaining. In addition, we investigated the composition
of phospholipid extracts from the plasma membrane of
apoptotic endothelial cells and the binding of patients'
sera to the surface of the same cells by using high
performance TLC and immunofluorescence analysis. The average
reactivity to MCL was comparable to that of CL and
significantly higher than that for DCL and HCL in patients
studied, both in the presence or in the absence of
beta2-Glycoprotein I. Of relevance for the pathogenic role
of these autoantibodies, IgG from patients' sera showed an
increased focal reactivity with the plasma membrane of
endothelial cells undergoing apoptosis. Interestingly, the
phospholipid analysis of these light membrane fractions
showed an accumulation of both CL and MCL. Our results
demonstrated that a critical number of acyl chains in CL
derivatives is important for the binding of
anti-phospholipid antibodies and that MCL is an antigenic
target with immunoreactivity comparable to CL in APS and
SLE. Our finding also suggests a link between apoptotic
perturbation of CL metabolism and the production of these
antibodies. |
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Antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with sensorineural
hearing loss. |
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|
Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2005
Aug;262(8):622-6. Sensorineural hearing loss can be
associated with autoimmune diseases and the presence of
antiphospholipid antibodies. Sixty patients (mean age 47
years, range 18-76 years) with sudden sensorineural hearing
loss were studied with audiograms, stapedial thresholds,
otoacoustic emissions, positional and caloric testing. The
serologic testing included antibodies against
phosphatidylserine and beta(2)-glycoprotein. Additionally, a
group of 34 patients (mean age 65 years, range 31-81 years)
with normal tension glaucoma was examined because in a
previous study these patients were reported to have elevated
concentrations of antiphospholipid antibodies with a
coincidence of progressive sensorineural hearing loss. The
baseline for antiphospholipid antibody levels was
established in a control group of 40 healthy blood donors.
In 12 of the 60 patients with sudden sensorineural hearing
loss, levels of antiphospholipid antibodies were elevated.
Antiphosphatidylserine IgM antibodies were significantly
lower compared to controls and patients with the combination
of hearing loss and normal tension glaucoma (Fisher's exact
two-sided test, P < 0.01). Our data suggest that antibodies
against beta2-glycoprotein seem to coincidence with an acute
event, such as sudden sensorineural hearing loss, whereas
antibodies against phosphatidylserine IgG are detectable in
the prolonged sequel, such as in patients with progressive
sensorineural hearing loss and normal tension glaucoma. |
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Antiphospholipid antibody in localised scleroderma |
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|
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
2003;62:771-774. Conclusions: These results suggest that aCL
and LAC are the major autoantibodies in patients with
generalised morphoea. |
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Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome complicated by Grave's
disease. |
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J Dermatol. 2002 Dec;29(12):776-80. The
report describes a woman with primary antiphospholipid
antibody syndrome complicated with Grave's disease.
Developing symptoms included a small cutaneous nodule on her
finger and subsequently ecchymotic purpura on the cheeks,
ears, buttocks and lower legs. Histological examinations
showed thrombosed vessels in the dermis without or with
hemorrhage, respectively. Laboratory investigation revealed
positive lupus anticoagulant and immunogenic hyperthyroidism
due to Grave's disease. There is a close relationship
between the cutaneous manifestation of antiphospholipid
antibody syndrome and the activities of Grave's disease and
a possible link of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome with
Grave's disease was suggested both by the etiology of the
disease as well as the disease activity. |
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Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome in a six-year-old female
patient. |
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Am J Ophthalmol. 2003 Apr;135(4):542-4
CONCLUSIONS: Although uncommon, retinovascular thrombosis in
children can occur in APA syndrome. Testing for ACA and
lupus anticoagulant should be considered. |
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Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Ulcers |
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© 1996-2005, American College of
Physicians. All rights reserved. |
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Antiphospholipid antibody syndromes and the Internet. |
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Lupus. 1996 Oct;5(5):418-24. Information
regarding the antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is
accessible on the Internet, and encompasses both physician
specific and patient specific files. The quantity and
quality of data available at these sites, however, varies
greatly and both search-refining and data manipulating
protocols and software need improvement. |
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Antiphospholipid inner ear syndrome. |
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Laryngoscope. 2005 May;115(5):879-83.
CONCLUSIONS: These data support the hypothesis that
antiphospholipid antibodies are involved in the pathogenesis
of some forms of inner ear dysfunction, presumably by
causing microthrombus formation in the labyrinthine
vasculature. Basic science studies are required to better
understand the mechanisms by which antiphospholipid
antibodies mediate inner ear dysfunction. Clinical studies
to evaluate the efficacy of anticoagulation in this group of
patients are also required. |
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Antiphospholipid Syndrome Has Many Faces |
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04/18/2002 By Anne MacLennan Review of
Arthritis & Rheumatism Volume 46, Issue 4, 2002. Pages:
1019-1027. |
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Asymptomatic sensorineural hearing loss in patients with
systemic lupus erythematosus. |
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J Clin Rheumatol. 2006 Oct;12(5):217-20.
CONCLUSION: If it can be established how often this ASNHL
progresses to a clinical problem, it can be important that,
as part of initial studies, patients with SLE undergo
audiometric tests. |
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Colonic ulcers in propylthiouracil induced vasculitis with
secondary antiphospholipid syndrome |
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|
Postgraduate Medical Journal
2005;81:338-340. A 48 year old white woman was admitted to
the hospital because of several bouts of migratory
polyarthritis, weight loss, fever, and abdominal pain over a
period of 15 months. She had been taking propylthiouracil
100 mg daily for three years for hyperthyroidism treatment.
A test for antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCA)
was positive with a perinuclear pattern of staining.
Antiphospholipid antibodies were also detected. Colonoscopy
showed several ulcers on intestinal mucosa and the biopsy
specimen showed intense microscopic vasculitis. The patient
is well after methylprednisolone pulse therapy and eight
months of oral azathioprine. A surveillance colonoscopy
showed complete healing of intestinal ulcers. No recurrence
of symptoms has occurred and autoantibodies are negative, 10
months after treatment finished. The sequence of events
suggests a propylthiouracil induced vasculitis p-ANCA
positive and an antiphospholipid syndrome. This is the first
report of colonic ulcers diagnosed and successfully treated
in such circumstances. |
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Endocrinologic manifestations of the antiphospholipid
syndrome. |
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Lupus. 2006;15(8):485-9. Clinicians
should keep a high index of suspicion for adrenal
insufficiency in patients with APS. |
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Genomics and targeting antithrombotic therapy in
antiphospholipid syndrome |
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Blood, 15 February 2006, Vol. 107, No. 4,
pp. 1249. |
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HCV and HIV may trigger antiphospholipid syndrome |
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|
Last Updated: 2004-04-16 12:25:03 -0400
(Reuters Health) |
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Infectious origin of the antiphospholipid syndrome |
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|
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
2006;65:2-6; doi:10.1136/ard.2005.045443 |
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Ischemic Colitis due to Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome |
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Comments: This 69 year old lady presented
to the hospital with sudden onset of left lower quadrant
pain and bloody diarrhea. She described having experienced
similar episodes over the past 25 years occurring every
several years but recently with increasing frequency. The
episodes have typically lasted several days before resolving
without sequella. A CT scan on this admission showed marked
wall thickening of the distal transverse colon, the splenic
flexure, and the descending colon. Inflammatory changes were
seen in the surrounding pericolic fat. The wall thickening
had a somewhat nonspecific appearance, although increased
mucosal and serosal enhancement raised the possibility of
ischemia. On the basis of this study, the differential
diagnosis included either an infectious or an inflammatory
process. Colonoscopy was then performed. The right and
transverse colon was normal but the splenic flexure down to
the sigmoid was diffusely abnormal with marked ulceration
and mucosal edema. The broad segments of ulceration favored
the diagnosis of an ischemic etiology and the prior history
of periodic occurrence of these events made an infectious
etiology less likely. Biopsies were performed and these
showed focal ulceration with acute inflammatory exudates
adjacent to intact mucosa. Other areas show crypt dropout,
with regeneration seen in the remaining crypts and fibrin
deposition in the lamina propria. These features were most
suggestive of ischemic colitis. Cultures for C. diff and
other pathogens were negative. At four week follow-up,
complete healing was demonstrated in the affected areas.
Colonic ischemia most frequently involves the splenic
flexure and the left colon and can mimic inflammatory bowel
disease or malignancy. While full thickness injury and acute
perforation can occur, the mucosal changes usually resolve
within 2 weeks. Stricture formation is rare. Usually no
cause for the event can be determined. E coli O157 is a
pathogen frequently associated with colonic ischemia. During
her workup she was found to have an ANA positive at 1:2560
in a homogeneous and speckled pattern and a positive
antiphospholipid antibody titer on two consecutive studies,
thus establishing the diagnosis of antiphospholipid antibody
syndrome as the cause of her recurrent ischemic events.
Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is caused by a class of
antibodies which includes lupus anticoagulant and anti
cardiolipin antibodies and appear to be directed against a
spectrum of plasma proteins bound to phospholipids involved
in the clotting cascade. Anti-phospholipid antibody syndrome
more commonly is associated with pregnancy loss, recurrent
CVAs, thrombophlebitis, pulmonary emboli and deep venous
thrombosis. Prospective studies report rates of recurrent
thromboembolic events in the range of 7-10% per patient per
year. Anticoagulation therapy with warfarin reduces the rate
of recurrent thrombotic events. Contributed by: Alexandra
Gutierrez, M.D. G.I. Fellow Massachusetts General Hospital |
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Management of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome: a
systematic review. |
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|
JAMA. 2006 Mar 1;295(9):1050-7.
CONCLUSIONS: In patients with APS, moderate-intensity
warfarin is effective for preventing recurrent venous
thrombosis and perhaps also arterial thrombosis. Aspirin
appears to be as effective as moderate-intensity warfarin
for preventing recurrent stroke in patients with prior
stroke and a single positive test result for
antiphospholipid antibody. The optimal treatment of other
thrombotic aspects of APS needs to be addressed in
well-designed prospective studies. |
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Neuroendocrine manifestations of phospholipid antibody
disease identified by long-term follow-up study of patients
with phospholipid antibodies. |
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|
Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2006 Jun;1069:386-90.
In conclusion: (1) Inflammatory disease may develop in some
patients with aPL and appears to be set off by pregnancy, a
known trigger for clinical thrombotic events in aPL
patients. (2) Thyroid cancer may be associated with aPL, and
this association warrants further study with larger number
of patients. |
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Nonthrombotic Manifestations of the Antiphospholipid
Syndrome: Away from Thrombosis? |
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© 2006. The Journal of Rheumatology
Publishing Company Limited. |
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Perioperative medical management of antiphospholipid
syndrome: hospital for special surgery experience, review of
literature, and recommendations. |
|
|
J Rheumatol. 2002 Apr;29(4):843-9.
Patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), who are
predisposed to vascular thrombotic events, are at additional
risk for thrombosis when they undergo surgery. Serious
perioperative complications (recurrent thrombosis,
catastrophic exacerbation, or bleeding) occur despite
prophylaxis. We describe our perioperative experience with
APS patients who underwent a variety of surgeries, review
the literature, and discuss strategies that may guide other
physicians in their perioperative evaluation and management
of patients with APS. Recommendations: perioperative
strategies should be clearly identified before surgical
procedure; pharmacological and physical antithrombosis
interventions vigorously employed; periods without
anticoagulation kept to a minimum; and any deviation from a
normal course should be considered a potential disease
related event. |
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|
Photocopy Machines and Occupational Antiphospholipid
Syndrome |
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|
IMAJ 2008;10:52–54. Two patients who
worked for several years in the operation and maintenance of
photocopy machines developed an autoimmune disease. In both,
early manifestations were thromboembolic phenomena
associated with anticardiolipin antibodies. Joint and kidney
involvement emerged later, with the appearance of other
autoantibodies. These two patients were occupationally
exposed to ultraviolet irradiation, ozone emission, and
possibly some oxides of heavy metals. To our knowledge this
is the first report of occupational autoimmune disease in
photocopy machine workers, and the first description of
antiphospholipid syndrome as an occupational disease. The
possible cause-effect inter-relationship between their
occupational exposure and autoimmune disease is discussed. |
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Spectrum of vascular pathology affecting patients with the
antiphospholipid syndrome. |
|
|
Hum Pathol. 1995 Jul;26(7):716-24. A
thrombotic microangiopathy that is identified in patients
with the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) represents only a
part of the vascular pathology that can be associated with
antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Tissues from two
autopsies, four renal biopsies, two skin biopsies, and one
amputated leg were obtained from six patients who met
criteria for the diagnosis of APS. Three patients had
systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), one had lupus-like
disease, and two had a primary APS. Five of the patients
were hypertensive. Arteries of three patients disclosed
fibrin thrombi along with widespread obstruction by
recanalized intimal connective tissue. Small renal,
leptomeningeal, and pulmonary arteries showed concentric
cellular and fibrous intimal hyperplasia indistinguishable
from hypertensive vascular disease. Glomerular capillary and
afferent arteriolar thrombi were found in renal biopsies
from two SLE patients. One of these SLE patients required a
leg amputation in which the popliteal artery demonstrated
thrombosis, intimal hyperplasia, and acute inflammation. The
findings support clinical and experimental data that
indicate aPLs cause thrombosis but suggest diversity in the
pathogenetic mechanisms aPLs are capable of promoting.
Inflammation seems to be rare and to accompany thrombosis.
Intimal hyperplasia is particularly common. Its involvement
of renal arteries may contribute to hypertension that
develops in some APS patients. |
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|
Spontaneous recovery of sudden sensorineural hearing loss:
possible association with autoimmune disorders. |
|
|
J Am Acad Audiol. 2006
Jul-Aug;17(7):498-505. |
| |
|
Superior mesenteric artery thrombosis associated with
antiphospholipid syndrome. |
|
|
West J Med. 1991 August; 155(2): 174–176. |
| |
|
The Antiphospholipid Story |
|
|
© 2003. The Journal of Rheumatology
Publishing Company Limited. |
| |
|
The systemic nature of the antiphospholipid syndrome. |
|
|
Scand J Rheumatol. 2004;33(6):365-72.
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS, Hughes' syndrome) is a
systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by arterial
and/or venous thrombosis and recurrent foetal loss,
accompanied by mild to moderate thrombocytopaenia and
elevated titres of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs): lupus
anticoagulant (LAC) and/or anticardiolipin (aCL) antibodies.
APS was defined originally in 1983 in systemic lupus
erythematosus (SLE) patients, but later it was found that
APS can be primary or secondary to other autoimmune diseases
or malignancy. During the past 20 years many organs have
been reported to be involved in this syndrome and the
clinical manifestations are seen in every medical field.
Moreover, many aPLs have been found in APS besides aCLs and
LACs, which bind to the autoantigen beta-2-glycoprotein I
(beta2GPI). Treatment for APS, based on antiplatelet and
anticoagulation drugs, is dependent on various parameters,
including whether SLE is also present, classical vs
non-classical manifestations of the diseases, women with APS
based on pregnancy morbidity, the presence of elevated aCL
antibody titres in the absence of clinical manifestations,
and catastrophic APS. |
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Urologic damage of the primary antiphospholipid syndrome |
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|
Arch Esp Urol. 2004 Sep;57(7):707-23. The
antiphospholipid syndrome is an acquired autoimmune systemic
disease generating a permanent hypercoagulability status
with recurrent multiorgan thrombotic events due to
circulating antiphospholipid antibodies. It may be secondary
to a heterogeneous group of diseases (mainly lupus) and
drugs, or primary if it appears isolated without any
demonstrable systemic disease or concomitant medication. It
is mainly characterized by venous or arterial recurrent
thrombosis, recurrent abortion, thrombocytopenia, and
circulating antiphospholipid auto-antibodies. Treatment with
anticoagulants and correction of the hypercoagulable status
contributing factors, arterial or venous thrombosis, and
vascular risk aim to avoid new thrombosis episodes.
Genitourynary system may be affected in any of its parts,
generally by arterial or venous thrombosis. Kidney is the
most frequently affected organ, in addition to transplanted
kidney grafts, adrenal glands, bladder and testicles. There
is a relationship between antiphospholipid syndrome and
infertility. For the first time, we describe bladder
involvement presenting as hyperreflexic neurogenic bladder
with detrusor-sphincter dyssynergia after spontaneous spinal
cord thrombosis in an asymptomatic adolescent with primary
antiphospholipid syndrome which was unknown before. |
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APS - Pregnancy
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A Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study of Intravenous
Immune Globulin Treatment of Antiphospholipid Syndrome
During Pregnancy |
|
|
The American Journal of Obstetrics and
Gynecology 01/01/2000 (Volume 182, Number 1) |
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A study of sixty pregnancies in patients with the
antiphospholipid syndrome. |
|
|
Clin Exp Rheumatol. 1996
Mar-Apr;14(2):131-6. |
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Antiphospholipid antibodies and pregnancy loss |
|
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|
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Antiphospholipid antibodies and pregnancy rates and outcome
in in vitro fertilization patients |
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|
Authors: A. Denis, M. Guido, R. Adler, P.
Bergh, C. Brenner, R. Scott, Jr. Source: Fertility and
Sterility: June, 1997 (Vol. 67) Pages 1084-1090. |
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Antiphospholipid Antibodies in Predicting Adverse Pregnancy
Outcome |
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|
Annals of Internal Medicine. 15 March
1994 | Volume 120 Issue 6 | Pages 470-475 |
| |
|
Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome |
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|
by Sara Marder, M.D. Instructor and
Fellow in Maternal and Fetal Medicine Department of
Obstetrics and Gynecology Yale University School of Medicine |
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|
Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome (APS) or Hughes and
Pregnancy |
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7/28/2003 |
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Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Pregnancy Article by
Stella Nowicki, DDS |
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|
Background: Antiphospholipid syndrome
(APS) is a recently recognized autoimmune condition that may
manifest with fetal loss, thrombosis, or autoimmune
thrombocytopenia. Women with these clinical features should
be tested for lupus anticoagulant (LAC) and anticardiolipin
(aCL) antibodies; most patients with APS have both LAC and
aCL immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. The diagnosis of APS
requires the presence of both clinical and biological
features. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic
systemic disease with diverse clinical and laboratory
manifestations. LAC (and aCL) predisposes to clotting in
vivo, predominantly by interfering with the antithrombotic
role of phospholipids (PLs); therefore, it is associated
with clinical thrombosis, not bleeding. The antiphospholipid
(aPL) autoantibodies bind moieties on negatively charged PLs
or moieties formed by the interaction of negatively charged
PLs with other lipids, PLs, or proteins. aPL antibodies
belong to the large family of antibodies that react with
negatively charged PLs, including cardiolipin,
phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol,
phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylcholine, and phosphatidic
acid. Last Updated: September 4, 2005 |
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Antiphospholipid Syndrome (aPL) |
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|
Because of the higher risks for stroke,
pregnancy loss, and other complications with aPL, mothers
need close monitoring of the disease. More frequent prenatal
visits are often needed. |
| |
|
Antiphospholipid Syndrome (aPL) |
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|
Antiphospholipid syndrome is an
autoimmune disease in which the body produces large amounts
of antiphospholipid antibodies. Phospholipids are a special
type of fat containing phosphate that makes up the outer
walls of the body's cells. Antiphospholipid antibodies
attack the phospholipids. This causes many different
problems including increased blood clotting. Cardiolipin is
one type of phospholipid and specific anticardiolipin
antibodies may develop. |
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Antiphospholipid syndrome and pregnancy |
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|
Akush Ginekol (Sofiia). 2004;43(1):36-42.
The antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APLS) is
multisystem, autoimmune disease, which is characterized by:
thrombosis, obstetrics complications and thrombocytopenia.
The two most clinically significant antiphospholipid
antibodies (APLa) that are associated with recurrent
pregnancy loss and thrombosis are anticardiolipin antibodies
(ACL) and lupus anticoagulant (LA). The laboratory diagnosis
is based on the presence of moderate to high positive ACL
and/or LA. The inhibitory effect of antiphospholipid
antibodies /APLa/ on trophoblast intercellular fusion,
hormone production and invasion may cause pregnancy loss.
Once placentation is established their thrombogenic action
leads to decreased placental perfusion and subsequent
infarction. The APLa--mediated inhibition of trophoblastic
invasion and APLa--mediated vasculopathy in the placental
bed arteries result in abnormal uterine artery /UA/ Doppler
waveforms. The association between APLa and high resistance
index /RI/ and/or diastolic notch /DN/ in the Doppler
waveforms is high predictive for adverse pregnancy outcome,
including pre-eclampsia/eclampsia, intrauterine growth
retardation, placental abruption, intrauterine fetal death.
Maternal treatment and careful monitoring of fetal
well-being are mandatory in the management of these
high-risk pregnancies. |
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Antiphospholipid Syndrome in Pregnancy: A Randomized,
Controlled Trial of Treatment |
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|
Obstetrics & Gynecology 2002;100:408-413
© 2002 by The American College of Obstetricians and
Gynecologists |
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Antiphospholipid syndrome in pregnancy: a randomized,
controlled trial of treatment. |
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Obstet Gynecol 2002; 100:408-13. |
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|
Clearance of Antiphospholipid Antibodies in Pregnancies
Treated With Heparin |
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|
Obstetrics & Gynecology 2001;97:394-398 ©
2001 by The American College of Obstetricians and
Gynecologists |
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|
Management of thrombosis in antiphospholipid syndrome and
systemic lupus erythematosus in pregnancy. |
|
|
Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2005 Jun;1051:606-12.
Pregnancy is a high risk period for thrombosis in women with
antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus
erythematosus (SLE) with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL).
Thrombosis may affect the mother, both in the venous and
arterial beds, and also have a role in pregnancy loss.
Thromboprophylaxis thus is warranted in most of these women.
However, specific regimens containing low-dose aspirin,
unfractionated heparin (UH), low molecular weight heparin
(LMWH), and even dicumarinics in some circumstances after
the first trimester are still a matter of controversy. Women
with previous thrombosis should receive full antithrombotic
doses of UH or LMWH during the whole pregnancy. Treatment of
pregnancy losses is more debated, consisting of low-dose
aspirin with or without associated heparin. The choice of
treatment for a given patient must always take into account
the woman's opinion after a careful discussion with the
treating physician. Peripartum thromboprophylaxis with LMWH
in women receiving aspirin-only regimens and prevention of
osteoporosis in those treated with heparin are considered
essential in the medical management of these patients. |
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|
Obstetric Implications of Antiphospholipid Antibodies:
Pregnancy Loss and Other Complications |
|
|
Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology:
Volume 44(1) March 2001 pp 2-10 |
| |
|
Pregnancy Loss in the Antiphospholipid-Antibody Syndrome — A
Possible Thrombogenic Mechanism |
|
|
N Engl J Med 1997;337 (154-160) |
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|
TNF- Is a Critical Effector and a Target for Therapy in
Antiphospholipid Antibody-Induced Pregnancy Loss |
|
|
The Journal of Immunology, 2005, 174:
485-490. The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is
characterized by recurrent fetal loss, intrauterine growth
restriction, and vascular thrombosis in the presence of
antiphospholipid (aPL) Abs. Our studies in a murine model of
APS induced by passive transfer of human aPL Abs have shown
that activation of complement and recruitment of neutrophils
into decidua are required for fetal loss, and emphasize the
importance of inflammation in aPL Ab-induced pregnancy loss.
In this study, we examine the role of TNF- in pregnancy
complications associated with aPL Abs in a murine model of
APS. We show that aPL Abs are specifically targeted to
decidual tissue and cause a rapid increase in decidual and
systemic TNF- levels. We identify the release of TNF- as a
critical intermediate that acts downstream of C5 activation,
based on the fetal protective effects of TNF- deficiency and
TNF blockade and on the absence of increased TNF- levels in
C5-deficient mice treated with aPL Abs. Our results suggest
that TNF- links pathogenic aPL Abs to fetal damage and
identify TNF blockade as a potential therapy for the
pregnancy complications of APS. |
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Use of the Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin Nadroparin During
Pregnancy: A Review |
|
|
from Current Medical Research and Opinion
Posted 04/02/2003. Summary: Antithrombotic therapy is often
used during pregnancy for the treatment and prevention of
venous thromboembolism, the prevention of systemic embolism
in patients with heart valve prostheses and the prevention
of foetal loss in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome.
Low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs), including nadroparin,
have largely replaced unfractionated heparin as the
anticoagulant of choice. The use of the LMWH nadroparin in
pregnant women at an increased risk of thromboembolism or
foetal loss is discussed in this review. Deep vein
thrombosis can be effectively treated or prevented with
nadroparin without any serious adverse events. Nadroparin
0.1 ml/10 kg sc once daily prevents thromboembolic
complications in pregnant women with heart valve prostheses.
Nadroparin is also effective in preventing foetal loss,
through contributing to normal placental development and in
decreasing the risk of premature delivery in pregnant women
with antiphospholipid syndrome or women with herpes and
antiphospholipid syndrome. These results demonstrate
nadroparin is effective, easy to administer and associated
with a low incidence of foetal and maternal complications.
The use of nadroparin at a prophylactic dose of 0.3 ml (2850
IU AXa, 95 IU/kg) (for high-risk patients, 0.3-0.6 ml) sc
once daily, and a therapeutic dose of 0.1 ml/10 kg (95
IU/kg) sc twice daily, is in line with the latest
international guidelines of the American College of Chest
Physicians. |
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APS - Seronegative APS - SNAPS
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*SERONEGATIVE ANTIPHOSPHOLIPID ANTIBODY SYNDROME (SNAPS)…AND
SNAPPING TO IT!! |
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|
By: Gale McCarty, MD, FACR, FACP “You
don’t have the syndrome because your tests are low level or
negative…” or “You have livedo, a heart valve problem, and
thrombocytopenia, but these aren’t listed as criteria for
diagnosis” are comments made frequently by healthcare
providers from many specialties to patients with clinical
features suggesting the Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome
(APS). |
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|
Antiphospholipid syndrome without antiphospholipid
antibodies at the time of the thrombotic event: transient
'seronegative' antiphospholipid syndrome? |
|
|
Clin Exp Rheumatol. 1997
Sep-Oct;15(5):541-4. The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is
characterized by the presence of venous and arterial
thrombosis, recurrent fetal losses and thrombocytopenia,
associated with the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies
(aPL). This syndrome may be "primary" or may be associated
with other diseases, mainly systemic lupus erythematosus
(SLE). However, some patients present the clinical picture
of this syndrome but without evidence of aPL in their serum.
The term "seronegative" APS has been proposed to categorize
these patients. Here with we present two patients with
seronegativity for aPL at the time of a thrombotic event,
but in whom these antibodies were detected 2 and 7 months
later. |
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Pyoderma gangrenosum associated with the secondary
antiphospholipid syndrome |
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Seronegative antiphospholipid syndrome |
|
|
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
2004;63:608 © 2004 by BMJ Publishing Group Ltd & European
League Against Rheumatism |
| |
|
Seronegative antiphospholipid syndrome |
|
|
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
2003;62:1127 © 2003 by BMJ Publishing Group Ltd & European
League Against Rheumatism |
| |
|
Seronegative antiphospholipid syndrome associated with
plasminogen activator inhibitor. |
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|
Lupus. 1994 Jun;3(3):201-3. |
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Top of Page |
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APS Support Groups & Chat
|
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*APS
Friends & Support Forum |
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|
A forum run by Heidi & Tina founders of
the APS Foundation of America, Inc., a non profit
organization. This forum is an information source and a
friendly support group for people who have Antiphospholipid
Antibody Syndrome or for anyone who's lives are touched by
it. It is sometimes referred to as APS, APLS, or APLA and is
known as Hughes Syndrome or "Sticky Blood" in the UK. APS is
associated with recurrent clotting events including
premature stroke, repeated miscarriages, phlebitis, venous
thrombosis and pulmonary thromboembolism. If this disease
touches your life in some way, please feel free to join in
our discussions! :) We're glad to have you visit! |
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Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome |
|
|
This group is primarily intended for
patients, caregivers, and physicians to foster discussions
and share experiences related to APS. APLA are antibodies
directed against certain phospholipids. Antiphospholipid
syndrome is defined as the presence of antiphospholipid
antibodies, arterial or venous thrombosis, recurrent
spontaneous abortions, and thrombocytopenia. The syndrome
can occur within the context of several diseases, mainly
autoimmune, or it may be present without any recognizable
disease, the so-called primary antiphospholipid syndrome.
The APSFA does not endorse nor is affiliated with this
group, we are just sharing it with you as a courtesy. The
only support group that APSFA is affiliated with is APS
Friends & Support Forum. It is worth noting that not all of
the information presented comes from healthcare
professionals. The APSFA does not have any control over the
content of the this website and cannot confirm that all
information provided by it is accurate. |
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|
Antiphospholipid Syndrome Online Support Group |
|
|
A community of patients, family members
and friends dedicated to dealing with Antiphospholipid
Syndrome, together. The APSFA does not endorse nor is
affiliated with this group, we are just sharing it with you
as a courtesy. The only support group that APSFA is
affiliated with is APS Friends & Support Forum. It is worth
noting that not all of the information presented comes from
healthcare professionals. The APSFA does not have any
control over the content of the this website and cannot
confirm that all information provided by it is accurate. |
| |
|
APLSUK |
|
|
A group for people who have Hughes
Syndrome / Antiphospholipid Syndrome. The APSFA does not
endorse nor is affiliated with this group, we are just
sharing it with you as a courtesy. The only support group
that APSFA is affiliated with is APS Friends & Support
Forum. It is worth noting that not all of the information
presented comes from healthcare professionals. The APSFA
does not have any control over the content of the this
website and cannot confirm that all information provided by
it is accurate. |
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|
APS Forum on Brain Talk Communities |
|
|
Small and not so active, but free to
join. Has alot of other forums as well. The APSFA does not
endorse nor is affiliated with this group, we are just
sharing it with you as a courtesy. The only support group
that APSFA is affiliated with is APS Friends & Support
Forum. It is worth noting that not all of the information
presented comes from healthcare professionals. The APSFA
does not have any control over the content of the this
website and cannot confirm that all information provided by
it is accurate. |
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APS Message Board at Medicine.net |
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Another small one, I believe free to
join. The APSFA does not endorse nor is affiliated with this
group, we are just sharing it with you as a courtesy. The
only support group that APSFA is affiliated with is APS
Friends & Support Forum. It is worth noting that not all of
the information presented comes from healthcare
professionals. The APSFA does not have any control over the
content of the this website and cannot confirm that all
information provided by it is accurate. |
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AutoImmunity Community |
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AutoImmunity Community is a message board
dedicated to the courageous people battling any of the over
60 autoimmune diseases, and is especially beneficial for
those with multiple conditions. Friends and family are
always welcome, as well as those who simply suspect they
have an autoimmune disease. The APSFA does not endorse nor
is affiliated with this group, we are just sharing it with
you as a courtesy. The only support group that APSFA is
affiliated with is APS Friends & Support Forum. It is worth
noting that not all of the information presented comes from
healthcare professionals. The APSFA does not have any
control over the content of the this website and cannot
confirm that all information provided by it is accurate. |
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Blood Clot Survivors DVT/PE/APS |
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A group of persons who have survived
blood clots, strokes, PE's, or who have APS. The APSFA does
not endorse nor is affiliated with this group, we are just
sharing it with you as a courtesy. The only support group
that APSFA is affiliated with is APS Friends & Support
Forum. It is worth noting that not all of the information
presented comes from healthcare professionals. The APSFA
does not have any control over the content of the this
website and cannot confirm that all information provided by
it is accurate. |
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Blood Clots Under 40 |
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Welcome to the Blood Clot group. This is
a group for younger people (or the young at heart!) to get
support and advice if they are suffering from any form of
blood clot, or if you are on Coumadin or Warfarin. The APSFA
does not endorse nor is affiliated with this group, we are
just sharing it with you as a courtesy. The only support
group that APSFA is affiliated with is APS Friends & Support
Forum. It is worth noting that not all of the information
presented comes from healthcare professionals. The APSFA
does not have any control over the content of the this
website and cannot confirm that all information provided by
it is accurate. |
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Clotters Anonymous |
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For general discussion of issues and
health conditions surrounding blood clots, including, but
not limited to deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism,
genetic clotting disorders and arterial clotting conditions
such as atrial fibrillation and stroke. The APSFA does not
endorse nor is affiliated with this group, we are just
sharing it with you as a courtesy. The only support group
that APSFA is affiliated with is APS Friends & Support
Forum. It is worth noting that not all of the information
presented comes from healthcare professionals. The APSFA
does not have any control over the content of the this
website and cannot confirm that all information provided by
it is accurate. |
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eHealth Forum |
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Make sure you read the rules of this
forum! The slightest step across their lines you are banned.
The APSFA does not endorse nor is affiliated with this
group, we are just sharing it with you as a courtesy. The
only support group that APSFA is affiliated with is APS
Friends & Support Forum. It is worth noting that not all of
the information presented comes from healthcare
professionals. The APSFA does not have any control over the
content of the this website and cannot confirm that all
information provided by it is accurate. |
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Lupus Patients Understanding and Support |
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Support Group and Forum. The APSFA does
not endorse nor is affiliated with this group, we are just
sharing it with you as a courtesy. The only support group
that APSFA is affiliated with is APS Friends & Support
Forum. It is worth noting that not all of the information
presented comes from healthcare professionals. The APSFA
does not have any control over the content of the this
website and cannot confirm that all information provided by
it is accurate. |
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Pulmonary Embolism |
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Suffering an episode of DVT or Pulmonary
Embolism is a life threatening/changing event. Doctors are
vague in sharing information about your prognosis or even
your treatment. This group will serve as a place where
people can compare their diagnosis and treatments and
perhaps help each other in this scary journey!! The APSFA
does not endorse nor is affiliated with this group, we are
just sharing it with you as a courtesy. The only support
group that APSFA is affiliated with is APS Friends & Support
Forum. It is worth noting that not all of the information
presented comes from healthcare professionals. The APSFA
does not have any control over the content of the this
website and cannot confirm that all information provided by
it is accurate. |
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Top of Page |
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Autoimmune Diseases - Other
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Adults And Primary Immune Deficiency Diseases |
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All
About Multiple Sclerosis |
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All About Multiple Sclerosis aims to
provide accurate and comprehensive medical information about
multiple sclerosis (MS) written in plain English by people
living with the disease and its symptoms. It contains a
detailed description of multiple sclerosis, a large archive
of news stories about MS, an MS encyclopedia and a large
links section containing hundreds of commented and rated
links. It also has a list of famous people with multiple
sclerosis and personal accounts, poems and essays by people
with MS. The site receives no sponsorship from
pharmaceutical or other financially interested companies and
maintains absolute editorial independence. |
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American
Autoimmune-Related Diseases Association |
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The American Autoimmune Related Diseases
Association is dedicated to the eradication of autoimmune
diseases and the alleviation of suffering and the
socioeconomic impact of autoimmunity through fostering and
facilitating collaboration in the areas of education,
research, and patient services in an effective, ethical and
efficient manner. |
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American Behcets Disease Association |
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The American Behcet's Foundation was
founded by a parent of a child with Behcet's Disease in 1978
in Orange County, California. In 1986, the Organization
changed its name to The American Behcet's Association (ABA)
and was moved to Rochester, Minnesota. Recently the name was
changed to the American Behcet's Disease Association (ABDA)
to clarify the nature of the organization. In 1987, the
American Behcet's Association was incorporated as a
nonprofit organization in the state of Minnesota and in
1989, was granted 501(c)3 tax exempt status by the Internal
Revenue Service. In 1988, a medical advisory board was
formed of Behcet's experts from around the country. |
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ANA Staining Pattern |
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Arthritis as Seen Through the Eyes |
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About one in four patients with
rheumatoid arthritis reports ocular symptoms. Know these
signs and symptoms to help you understand the disease and
effectively treat these patients. 1/15/2006 |
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Arthritis Help and Advice |
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© 2004 ArthritisHelper.com. All rights
reserved. |
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Atherosclerosis in Patients With Autoimmune Disorders |
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Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2005 Jun
23 |
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AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE IN WOMEN - THE FACTS |
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The term "autoimmune disease" refers to a
varied group of more than 80 serious, chronic illnesses that
involve almost every human organ system. It includes
diseases of the nervous, gastrointestinal, and endocrine
systems as well as skin and other connective tissues, eyes
blood, and blood vessel. In all of these diseases, the
underlying problem is similar--the body's immune system
becomes misdirected, attacking the very organs it was
designed to protect. |
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Autoimmune Diseases |
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A PDF File Explaining Autoimmune Testing |
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Autoimmune Diseases in Asthma |
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Copyright © 2006 by the American College
of Physicians. 20 June 2006 | Volume 144 Issue 12 | Pages
877-883. Conclusions: Asthma status may affect the
prevalence of major autoimmune disorders. Preexisting asthma
seems to protect against the development of autoimmune
disorders to varying degrees in men and women. |
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Bechet's Disease |
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Borderline Rheumatic Conditions |
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Professor J.C.W. Edwards MD FRCP,
Professor in Connective Tissue Medicine, University College,
London. © 1999. |
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Cardiac involvement in systemic autoimmune disease |
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Pol Arch Med Wewn. 2003
Apr;109(4):375-81. Systemic autoimmune diseases form a
diverse group which includes: systemic lupus erythematosus
(SLE), mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD), scleroderma,
dermato-polymyositis, Wegener's granulomatosis, Sjogren
syndrome. Although multisystem involvement is the hallmark
of these diseases, the heart seems to be less affected than
other organ systems. The aim of the study was to study
possible cardiac abnormalities in patients with documented
systemic autoimmune diseases and to assess whether there was
any relation between antiphospholipid, anti-dsDNA antibodies
and myocardial dysfunction findings. 76 patients (53 with
SLE, 9 with MCTD, 8 with scleroderma, 6 with Wegener's
granulomatosis) were subjected to our study, 69% of these
patients manifested cardiac involvement, based on
two-dimentional echocardiografic examination
(36%--post-inflammatory valvular thickening,
20%--pericardial effusions, 15%--valvular regurgitation,
7%--left atrial enlargement, 5%--left ventricular
hypertrophy, 4%--left ventricular dysfunction). None of the
patients showed characteristic, acute Libman-Sacks
endocarditis, which probably can be explained by chronic
corticosteroid-treatment. Clinical evidence of cardiac
abnormalities has been observed, in as many as 58% of cases
with positive echocardiographic findings. The frequency and
extend of cardiac pathology positively correlated with the
detection of antiphospholipid antibodies. No such
relationship was observed in patients with the presence of
very high titers of antinuclear antibodies (anti-dsDNA). In
conclusion, our results indicate that echocardiography is a
useful method for assessment and monitoring cardiac
involvement in the systemic autoimmune diseases. |
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Cell therapy for autoimmune diseases |
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Arthritis Research & Therapy 2007, 9:206.
Cell therapy, pioneered for the treatment of malignancies in
the form of bone marrow transplantation, has subsequently
been tested and successfully employed in autoimmune
diseases. Autologous haemopoietic stem cell transplantation
(HSCT) has become a curative option for conditions with very
poor prognosis such as severe forms of scleroderma, multiple
sclerosis, and lupus, in which targeted therapies have
little or no effect. The refinement of the conditioning
regimens has virtually eliminated transplant-related
mortality, thus making HSCT a relatively safe choice.
Although HSCT remains a nonspecific approach, the knowledge
gained in this field has led to the identification of new
avenues. In fact, it has become evident that the therapeutic
efficacy of HSCT cannot merely be the consequence of a
high-dose immuno-suppression, but rather the result of a
resetting of the abnormal immune regulation underlying
autoimmune conditions. The identification of professional
and nonprofessional immunosuppressive cells and their
biological properties is generating a huge interest for
their clinical exploitation. Regulatory T cells, found
abnormal in several autoimmune diseases, have been proposed
as central to achieve long-term remissions. Mesenchymal stem
cells of bone marrow origin have more recently been shown
not only to be able to differentiate into multiple tissues,
but also to exert a potent antiproliferative effect that
results in the inhibition of immune responses and prolonged
survival of haemopoietic stem cells. All of these potential
resources clearly need to be investigated at the preclinical
level but support a great deal of enthusiasm for cell
therapy of autoimmune diseases. |
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Connective Tissue Diseases: The Big Three |
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Discusses Lupus, Sjogren's and
Antiphospholipid Antibody (Hughes) Syndrome. |
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Demyelination in rheumatic diseases |
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Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and
Psychiatry 2006;77:290-295; doi:10.1136/jnnp.2005.075861.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of
the central nervous system (CNS) characterised by multifocal
areas of demyelination in the white matter of the brain and
spinal cord. Autoantibodies, for example antinuclear
antibodies, can also be present. MS and other demyelinating
processes, such as transverse myelitis and optic neuritis
(which may be clinically isolated cases or be part of the
clinical spectrum of MS), are sometimes difficult to
differentiate from CNS involvement in systemic autoimmune
diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE),
antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), Sjoegren’s syndrome (SS),
and Adamantiades-Behcet disease (BD). An acute isolated
neurological syndrome presents the biggest diagnostic
problem, since it is common in MS, but can also be the only
feature or first manifestation in SLE, APS, SS, and BD.
Indeed, the clinical presentation and lesions evidenced by
magnetic resonance imaging may be similar. |
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Dry.Org : Internet Resources for Sjogren's Syndrome |
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eMedicine - Livedoid Vasculopathy : Article by Noah S
Scheinfeld, MD, JD, FAAD |
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Last Updated: January 18, 2006. Livedoid
vasculopathy (LV), or livedoid vasculitis, is a disease
characterized by ulceration of the lower extremities. It can
evolve into a dermatologic finding termed atrophie blanche
(AB). LV is a distinct condition that is not usually the
result of other diseases, as Jorizzo elegantly noted in
1998. |
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Encouraging Results With Rituximab in Relapsing MS |
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Medscape Medical News 2007. © 2007
Medscape Registration Required |
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Graves Disease Page |
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Guillain-Barrè Syndrome Fact Sheet |
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reproduced from an article by The
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Reviewed June 6, 2001 |
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Handy Hints on Keeping Warm |
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Raynaud's is a common condition in which
blood is prevented from reaching the extremities of the
body, mainly the fingers and toes, on exposure to the cold
or any slight change in temperature. A small number of
people who have Raynaud's also develop scleroderma, a
disease which affects the connective tissue. |
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Heidi
Whitaker Kathy Browning Healthy Divas |
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If you, or someone you love, has received
the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus, Chronic Fatigue
Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Scleroderma,
Sjogren’s Disease, Goodpasture's Syndrome, Wegener's
Granulomatosis, Polymyalgia Rheumatica, Temporal Arteritis /
Giant Cell Arteritis, Type I Diabetes Mellitus, Hashimoto’s
Thyroditis, Graves’ Disease, Celiac Disease, Crohn’s
Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Guillain-Barre Syndrome,
Epstein-Barr Syndrome, Addison’s Disease, Primary Biliary
Sclerosis, Primary Bilary Cirrhosis, Sclerosing Cholangitis,
Autoimmune Hepatitis, Raynaud’s Phenomenon or any of the
other eighty autoimmune disease, this website is for you.
And, even though it may look like it, HealthyDivas.com is
not just for females. Men need to know this information too! |
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Husbands and Wives Living With Multiple Sclerosis |
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Abstract Abstract: Multiple sclerosis
(MS) frequently is diagnosed in young adults. Coping with
symptoms of MS is challenging not only for the person with
the disease, but also for his or her spouse. The well spouse
often assumes the caregiving role. The purpose of this
qualitative research was to investigate the experiences of
persons whose spouses have MS. Twelve people participated in
a 2-hour focus group: 8 men and 4 women. The husbands were,
on average, 50 years old, and the wives averaged 55 years
old. The length of time since diagnosis ranged from 2 to 11
years for the husbands and from 3 to 13 years for the wives.
The focus group discussions were audiotaped and transcribed
verbatim. Participants talked freely. Four major themes
emerged: caregiver roles, need for information, relationship
changes, and barriers. Men attempted to protect their wives'
energy, intervening for them. Wives encouraged independence
in their husbands. Spouses need information about MS,
complementary interventions, and support. They want
increased public awareness of invisible symptoms and
awareness in the workplace of continuing capabilities of
persons with MS. Role reversals were challenging for the
women who felt that "MS is the third person in a marriage."
Spouses need help to maintain appropriate boundaries.
Limitations of the study include the small, economically
homogeneous sample and the single encounter with the
subjects. A longitudinal intervention study is needed.
Registration Required. |
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Hypersensitivity Vasculitis (Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis) |
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Last Updated: February 8, 2006.
Leukocytoclastic vasculitis (LCV) is a histopathologic term
commonly used to denote a small-vessel vasculitis. Many
possible causes exist for this condition, but a cause is not
found in as many as 50% of patients. The disorder may be
localized to the skin, or it may manifest in other organs.
The internal organs most commonly affected are the
gastrointestinal tract and the kidneys. Joints are also
commonly affected. The prognosis is good when no internal
involvement is present. The disorder may be acute or
chronic. |
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International Still's Disease Foundation |
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The purpose of the International Still's
Disease Foundation is to: provide support to those who
suffer from Still's Disease, encourage and facilitate
communication between Still's Disease sufferers, provide
information on Still's Disease to those with the disease,
their families, and health care workers and increase general
awareness of Still's Disease. |
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Livedoid Vasculopathy |
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Last Updated: January 18, 2006 Livedoid
vasculopathy (LV), or livedoid vasculitis, is a disease
characterized by ulceration of the lower extremities. It can
evolve into a dermatologic finding termed atrophie blanche
(AB). |
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MR in neurological syndromes of connective tissue |
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Signature: Med Sci Monit, 2002; 8(6):
MT105-111 |
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Multiple
Sclerosis |
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Multiple Sclerosis Health Center |
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Multiple sclerosis affects 2.5 million
people worldwide, including 400,000 Americans. Get in-depth
information here on multiple sclerosis symptoms and
treatments. Plus, find daily help in our online support
group. |
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Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the
central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). |
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Review Date: 8/6/2007 |
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Myasthenia
Gravis |
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Myasthenia Gravis Association |
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Myasthenia Gravis |
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Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune
neuromuscular disease characterized by varying degrees of
weakness of the skeletal (voluntary) muscles of the body.
The name myasthenia gravis, which is Latin and Greek in
origin, literally means "grave muscle weakness." With
current therapies, however, most cases of myasthenia gravis
are not as "grave" as the name implies. In fact, for the
majority of individuals with myasthenia gravis, life
expectancy is not lessened by the disorder. |
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National Jewish
Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine |
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This organization publishes booklets for
the public and offers an information line staffed by trained
nurses. 1-800-222-LUNG |
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New Study Linking Asbestos To Autoimmunity Is Preliminary,
But Promising, Says American Autoimmune Related Diseases
Association |
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More Studies Needed On Possible
Environmental Triggers of Autoimmune Disease |
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NINDS Sjogren's Syndrome Information Page |
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Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune
disorder in which immune cells attack and destroy the glands
that produce tears and saliva. Sjogren's syndrome is also
associated with rheumatic disorders such as rheumatoid
arthritis. The hallmark symptoms of the disorder are dry
mouth and dry eyes. In addition, Sjogren's syndrome may
cause skin, nose, and vaginal dryness, and may affect other
organs of the body including the kidneys, blood vessels,
lungs, liver, pancreas, and brain. Last updated January 25,
2006 |
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No evidence for an association between the -871 T/C promoter
polymorphism in the B-cell-activating factor gene and
primary Sjögren's syndrome |
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Arthritis Research & Therapy 2006, 8:R30
doi:10.1186/ar1884 Published 9 January 2006 Polyclonal B
cell activation might be related to pathogenic
over-expression of B-cell-activating factor (BAFF) in
primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) and other autoimmune
diseases. We therefore investigated whether BAFF
over-expression in pSS could be a primary, genetically
determined event that leads to the disease. The complete
BAFF gene was sequenced in Caucasian pSS patients and
control individuals. The only single nucleotide polymorphism
frequently observed, namely -871 T/C in the promoter region,
was then genotyped in 162 French patients with pSS and 90
French control individuals. No significant differences in
allele (T allele frequency: 49.7% in patients with pSS
versus 50% in controls; P = 0.94) and genotype frequencies
of BAFF polymorphism were detected between pSS patients and
control individuals. BAFF gene polymorphism was not
associated with a specific pattern of antibody secretion
either. T allele carriers had significantly increased BAFF
protein serum levels (mean values of 8.6 and 5.7 ng/ml in
patients with TT and TC genotypes, respectively, versus 3.3
ng/ml in patients with CC genotype; P = 0.01), although no
correlation was observed between BAFF polymorphism and mRNA
level. In conclusion, BAFF gene polymorphism is neither
involved in genetic predisposition to pSS nor associated
with a specific pattern of antibody production. |
|
Ocular manifestations of autoimmune disease |
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American Family Physician, Sept
15, 2002 by Sayjal J. Patel, Diane C. Lundy Patients
with autoimmune diseases are frequently encountered
by family physicians. It is important to understand
not only the systemic effects of these diseases but
also their ocular manifestations. Most ocular
complications involve the cornea but may also
include the conjunctiva, uvea, sclera, retina, and
surrounding structures (Figure 1). The majority of
these diseases will ultimately need to be referred
to an ophthalmologist. |
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Ocular Manifestations of Behcet’s Disease |
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Indian Pediatrics 2005;
42:942-945 |
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Plasmapheresis and Autoimmune Disease |
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|
Plasmapheresis is a process in
which the fluid part of the blood, called plasma, is
removed from blood cells by a device known as a cell
separator. The separator works either by spinning
the blood at high speed to separate the cells from
the fluid or by passing the blood through a membrane
with pores so small that only the fluid part of the
blood can pass through. The cells are returned to
the person undergoing treatment, while the plasma,
which contains the antibodies, is discarded and
replaced with other fluids. Medication to keep the
blood from clotting (an anticoagulant) is given
through a vein during the procedure. |
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Psoriatic Arthritis |
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|
© Arthritis Research Campaign
2004. All rights reserved. Published December 2004.
Medical advice or information last amended: October
2005. Useful addresses checked/amended: October 2005 |
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Questions and Answers about Raynaud's Phenomenon |
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|
The NIAMS gratefully acknowledges
the assistance of Paul Plotz, M.D., NIAMS, NIH;
Phillip J. Clements, M.D., of the University of
California, Los Angeles; Jay D. Coffman, M.D., of
the Boston University Medical Center; and Frederick
M. Wigley, M.D., of The Johns Hopkins University
School of Medicine in the preparation and review of
this booklet. NIH Publication No. 01-4911 |
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Radiographic joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis is
associated with differences in cartilage turnover
and can be predicted by serum biomarkers: an
evaluation from 1 to 4 years after diagnosis |
|
|
Arthritis Research & Therapy
2006, 8:R31 doi:10.1186/ar1882 Published 10 January
2006 This study shows that the concentration of
serum biomarkers of cartilage collagen breakdown and
proteoglycan turnover, but not of collagen
synthesis, are related to joint destruction in RA.
The use of these biomarkers may be of value when
studying progression of joint damage in patients
with RA. |
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Raynaud Phenomenon |
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AJN, American Journal of Nursing
August 2005 Volume 105 Number 8 Pages 56 - 65 |
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|
Raynaud Phenomenon Article by Jeffrey R Lisse, MD,
FACP |
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|
Background: Raynaud phenomenon
refers to reversible ischemia of peripheral
arterioles. This can be in response to various
stimuli but is most commonly caused by exposure to
cold or stress. Raynaud phenomenon (secondary
Raynaud) should be distinguished from Raynaud
disease (primary Raynaud). They are distinct
disorders that share a similar name. Raynaud disease
is the occurrence of the vasospasm alone, with no
association with another illness. Raynaud phenomenon
is usually used in the context of vasospasm
associated with another illness, most commonly an
autoimmune disease. Other terms used for this
distinction are primary Raynaud (disease) and
secondary Raynaud (phenomenon). Young female
patients who have had Raynaud phenomenon alone for
more than 2 years and have not developed any
additional manifestations are at low risk for
developing an autoimmune disease. Most of these
patients are considered to have primary Raynaud.
These patients do not exhibit capillary nailfold
changes. If such changes are noted on nailfold
capillaroscopy, other autoimmune diseases should be
considered in the differential diagnoses. The same
should be said for older and male patients who have
Raynaud phenomenon, as vasospastic symptoms may
predate systemic disease by as much as 20 years. In
some studies, 46-81% of patients have secondary
Raynaud. Although Raynaud phenomenon has been
described with various autoimmune diseases, the most
common association is with progressive systemic
sclerosis (scleroderma; 90% prevalence) and mixed
connective-tissue disease (85% prevalence). Raynaud
phenomenon has also been described with such diverse
diseases as systemic lupus erythematosus and other
disorders not classified as autoimmune, including
frostbite, vibration injury, polyvinyl chloride
exposure, and cryoglobulinemia. Last Updated: April
5, 2006 |
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Raynaud's Association |
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Rheumatoid Arthritis Health Center |
|
|
Rheumatoid arthritis affects more
than 2 million Americans, mostly women. Here you'll
find in-depth information on rheumatoid arthritis,
its causes, symptoms, treatments, and pain relief
methods. Plus, find daily support in our online
support group. |
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|
Rheumatoid Arthritis: What You Should Know |
|
|
This information provides a
general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk
to your family doctor to find out if this
information applies to you and to get more
information on this subject. Copyright © 2005 by the
American Academy of Family Physicians. Individuals
may photocopy this material for their own personal
reference, and physicians may photocopy for use with
their own patients. Written permission is required
for all other uses, including electronic uses. |
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|
Scleroderma Foundation - Home Page |
|
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|
Sjögren syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus
are distinct conditions |
|
|
Dermatology Online Journal 12
(1): 4. Abstract: Sjögren syndrome (SS) and systemic
lupus erythematosus (SLE) are both collagen vascular
diseases that can be accompanied by Ro antibodies.
Clinical evidence suggests that they are wholly
distinct diseases. SS is strongly linked to lymphoma
while lupus is not. SS patients do not commonly
exhibit photosensitivity even though anti-Ro
antibodies circulate in their blood; SLE patients
generally exhibit photosensitivity. SS does not
respond to hydroxychloroquine in a reproducible
fashion whereas SLE does. SS has not been linked to
parvovirus B19, but SLE has. However, SS and SLE do
have similarities. Their autoantibody profiles are
similar. They effect women more than men and have
similar HLA haplotypes and autoantibodies; this is
not likely coincidence but it may not clinically
relevant. |
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|
Sjögren’s Syndrome |
|
|
US Pharm. 2007;32(3):72-81. The
most important concept to realize when selecting
appropriate treatment for a patient with Sjögren's
syndrome is that therapy must be adapted to the
individual patient's needs and responses. Each
patient will present with some similar symptoms but
also with a unique set of symptoms and complaints.
Pharmacists can have an active role in helping
patients manage this syndrome. Providing excellent
pharmaceutical care and continuity of care is the
first step. Counseling and teaching patients about
the syndrome as well as providing tips for improving
patients' quality of life can have a dramatic
impact. |
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Sjogren's World |
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Sneddon Syndrome |
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This is a rare disorder
characterized by livedoid eruption and
cerebrovascular defects. There is a distinct
association with the Antiphospholipid Antibody
syndrome and Lupus erythematosus. Indeed, some
investigators believe that this syndrome is a
variant of the Antiphophospholipid Antibody
Syndrome. Last Updated 12/11/2001 |
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Sneddon's syndrome is a thrombotic vasculopathy:
neuropathologic and neuroradiologic evidence |
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Neurology, Vol 45, Issue 3
557-560, Copyright © 1995 by American Academy of
Neurology |
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Sneddon’s syndrome: additional neurological feature
in antiphospholipid (Hughes’) syndrome |
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Postgraduate Medical Journal
2003;79:550 © 2003 Fellowship of Postgraduate
Medicine |
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The Arthritis Foundation |
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800-283-7800 |
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The Cold Facts About Seriously Cold Hands |
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Published/Last Reviewed: August
15, 2005 |
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The Common Thread |
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Noel R. Rose, M.D., Ph.D., Chair,
AARDA National Scientific Advisory Board, Professor
of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology and
Pathology The Johns Hopkins University The topic
that Mrs. Ladd has asked me to discuss with you this
afternoon is "Autoimmune Diseases: How Are They
Related?" It is a very good topic because it forced
me to think about the question. |
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The Immune System And Primary Immune Deficiency
Diseases |
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The
International Scleroderma Network (ISN) |
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Over 70 volunteers operate the
nonprofit International Scleroderma Network (ISN),
delivering research, support, education and
awareness! Our services include this Scleroderma
from A to Z website at www.sclero.org, (with 1200+
pages in 22 languages), the Voices of Scleroderma
book series, medical advisory, membership, research
fund and support services. YOU can make a
difference: Join and support our worldwide
initiative to tackle scleroderma now! |
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The National Institute of Arthritis and
Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) |
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877-22-NIAMS |
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The Raynaud's Treatment Study (RTS) |
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Objectives: To evaluate and
compare the effectiveness of sustained-release
nifedipine, and the effectiveness of temperature
biofeedback, for the treatment of patients with
Primary Raynaud's Phenomenon. |
| |
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The Sjögren's Syndrome Foundation About Sjögren's
Syndrome FAQs About Sjögren's Syndrome |
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Thyroid Autoantibodies (TPOAb, TgAb and TRAb) |
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Thyroid 13(1):45-56, 2003. © 2003
Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. Posted 06/04/2003
Registration Required. |
| |
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Top 10 Needs of People With Multiple Sclerosis and
Their Significant Others |
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J Neurosci Nurs.
2006;38(5):369-373. ©2006 American Association of
Neuroscience Nurses. The purpose of this study was
to identify the needs of patients with multiple
sclerosis (MS) and their significant others. A
quantitative questionnaire, developed from focus
groups and consisting of 75 needs statements, was
administered to 353 MS patients and 240 significant
others. Analysis produced rankings of the 10 most
important needs of both groups. Rankings by the MS
patients and significant others were similar. Three
themes emerged. Psychosocial and other personal
needs (relationship with physicians, the MS
healthcare team, family, and friends) were ranked
with high frequency. Information needs (information
regarding MS or available support) and financial
security were also ranked as important. The data
validate the importance of interdisciplinary care
for the MS population. Registration Required |
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Understanding Autoimmune Diseases |
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In this report you will learn
what an autoimmune disease does in the body. What
the underlying causes of autoimmune diseases are and
what is important to consider in dealing with it. So
that you may have a better understanding of how to
get healthy again. |
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Vasculitis |
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Also called: Angiitis, Arteritis |
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Vasculitis |
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Vasculitis is a general term for
a group of uncommon diseases that feature
inflammation of the blood vessels. The blood vessels
of the body are referred to as the vascular system.
The blood vessels are composed of arteries that pass
oxygen-rich blood to the tissues of the body and
veins that return oxygen-depleted blood from the
tissues to the lungs for oxygen. Vasculitis is
characterized by inflammation in and damage to the
walls of various blood vessels. |
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Vasculitis and Thrombophlebitis |
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|
Last Updated: March 30, 2006.
Vasculitis is a descriptive term associated with a
heterogeneous group of diseases that results in
inflammation of blood vessels. Arteries and veins of
any size in any organ may be affected, leading to
ischemic damage to organs. The pattern of vessel
involvement is highly variable, leading to
innumerable clinical presentations. The most common
vasculitides of childhood are Henoch-Schönlein
purpura and Kawasaki disease. See articles on
Kawasaki Disease, Infantile Polyarteritis Nodosa,
Polyarteritis Nodosa, and Takayasu Arteritis. |
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Vasculitis Foundation |
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The Vasculitis Foundation
advocates for early diagnosis, leading edge
treatment and ultimately a cure for all types of
vasculitis. |
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What Is Raynaud's Disease? |
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|
Raynaud's disease and Raynaud's
phenomenon are rare disorders that affect blood
vessels. These disorders are marked by brief
episodes of vasospasm (narrowing of the blood
vessels). Vasospasm causes decreased blood flow to
the fingers and toes, and rarely to the nose, ears,
nipples, and lips. The fingers are the most commonly
affected area, but the toes also are affected in 40
percent of people with Raynaud's. When this disorder
occurs without any known cause, it is called
Raynaud's disease, or primary Raynaud's. When the
condition occurs along with a likely cause, it is
known as Raynaud's phenomenon, or secondary
Raynaud's. Primary Raynaud's is more common and
tends to be less severe than secondary Raynaud's.
When you have primary or secondary Raynaud's, cold
temperatures or stressful emotions can trigger
attacks. During these attacks, there is a brief lack
of blood flow to the affected body part(s), and the
skin can temporarily become white then bluish. As
blood flow returns to the area, the skin turns red.
The affected areas can throb or feel numb and
tingly. With severe Raynaud's, prolonged or repeated
episodes can cause sores or tissue death (gangrene).
June 2006 |
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What is the evaluation and treatment strategy for
Raynaud's phenomenon? |
|
|
Journal of Family Practice, June,
2005 by Heather Tagliarino, Michael Purdon, Barbara
Jamieson |
| |
|
What Is Vasculitis? |
|
|
Vasculitis is an inflammation of
the blood vessels in the body. In vasculitis, the
body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s
own blood vessels, causing them to become inflamed.
Inflammation can damage the blood vessels and lead
to a number of serious complications. Vasculitis can
affect any of the body’s blood vessels. These
include arteries, veins, and capillaries. Arteries
are vessels that carry blood from the heart to the
body’s organs, veins are the vessels that carry
blood back to the heart, and capillaries are the
tiny blood vessels that connect the small arteries
and veins. August 2006 |
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Top of Page |
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Cardiology & Pulmonology Related Information
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American Heart Association |
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| |
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An Approach to Interpreting Spirometry |
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Am Fam Physician 2004;69:1107-14.
Copyright© 2004 American Academy of Family
Physicians |
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AorticDissection.com |
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B vitamins do not protect hearts |
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Taking B vitamins to ward off
heart attacks and stroke does no good and may even
be harmful, say experts. Last Updated: Tuesday, 6
September 2005, 08:32 GMT 09:32 UK |
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British Heart Foundation |
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Cardiac Syndrome X |
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Cardiac syndrome X is a condition
where patients have the pain of angina, but they do
not have CAD. So even though patients with cardiac
syndrome X have symptoms of CAD, the coronary
arteries are clear of blockages. Cardiac syndrome X
is more common in women, especially women who have
gone through menopause. It is not life threatening
and does not increase your risk of heart attack or
CAD. Updated July 2007 |
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Cardiac syndrome X: a critical overview and future
perspectives |
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|
Published Online First: 6 January
2006. doi:10.1136/hrt.2005.067330. Heart
2007;93:159-166. ABSTRACT: The classic definition of
cardiac syndrome X (CSX) seems inadequate both for
clinical and research purposes and should be
replaced with one aimed at including a sufficiently
homogeneous group of patients with the common
plausible pathophysiological mechanism of coronary
microvascular dysfunction. More specifically, CSX
should be defined as a form of stable effort angina,
which, according to careful diagnostic
investigation, can reasonably be attributed to
abnormalities in the coronary microvascular
circulation. |
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Cardiovascular Diseases in Children |
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|
US Pharm. 2007;32(3):52-65.
Cardiovascular diseases are becoming increasingly
prevalent in children, due at least in part to the
rise in childhood obesity. Public awareness is also
increasing, and treatment options are improving.
Pharmacists have the responsibility of counseling
children and their caregivers about pharmacologic
and nonpharmacologic therapies and interventions
that can improve long-term prognosis. Adherence to
complex medication regimens is key to optimal
management. In cases of CHDs, for example,
pharmacists can provide education about the
rationale for drug therapy, and in cases of
arrhythmia, they can obtain a thorough medication
history to assist in diagnosis or avoidance. More
important, pharmacists can stress the possibility of
preventing the onset of cardiovascular diseases and
encourage lifestyle changes that can help reduce the
occurrence of hypertension and obesity. |
| |
|
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Diagnostic
Considerations |
|
|
Am Fam Physician 2006;73:669-76,
677-8. Copyright © 2006 American Academy of Family
Physicians. |
| |
|
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: What You
Should Know |
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|
This handout is provided to you
by your family doctor and the American Academy of
Family Physicians. Other health-related information
is available from the AAFP online at
http://www.familydoctor.org. This information
provides a general overview and may not apply to
everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if
this information applies to you and to get more
information on this subject. Copyright © 2006
American Academy of Family Physicians. |
| |
|
Coronary Computed Tomography Angiogram (Coronary
CTA) |
|
|
Computed tomography, commonly
known as a CT or CAT scan, is a test that uses
x-rays and computers to produce cross-sectional
images of the body. CT has been used for over 25
years to examine all parts of the body. |
| |
|
High Blood Pressure: What You Should Know |
|
|
This handout is provided to you
by your family doctor and the American Academy of
Family Physicians. Other health-related information
is available from the AAFP online at
http://www.familydoctor.org. This information
provides a general overview and may not apply to
everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if
this information applies to you and to get more
information on this subject. Copyright © 2006
American Academy of Family Physicians. |
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Keep PAD patients walking |
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|
Mar 1, 2006. Geriatrics |
| |
|
Libman-Sacks Endocarditis |
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|
Libman-Sacks (verrucous)
endocarditis is the most characteristic cardiac
manifestation of the autoimmune disease systemic
lupus erythematosus (see Systemic Lupus
Erythematosus for more information). Libman and
Sacks first published a description of these
atypical, sterile, verrucous vegetations in 1924.
Postmortem studies describe mulberrylike clusters of
verrucae on the ventricular surface of the posterior
mitral leaflet, often with adherence of the mitral
leaflet and chordae to the mural endocardium. The
lesions typically consist of accumulations of immune
complexes and mononuclear cells. The condition is
not always recognized on echocardiographic images.
With the introduction of steroid therapy for
systemic lupus erythematosus, improved longevity of
patients appears to have changed the spectrum of
valvular disease. Valvular abnormalities occur as
masses (classic Libman-Sacks vegetations; see Image
1), diffuse leaflet thickening, valvular
regurgitation, and, infrequently, stenosis. Valvular
regurgitation is noted most commonly in patients
with leaflet thickening, which is thought to
represent the chronic healed phase of disease. The
left-sided valves are involved most often. Lesions
similar to those described by Libman and Sacks also
occur in association with primary or secondary
antiphospholipid syndrome. The role of these
autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of Libman-Sacks
endocarditis is disputed. Lesions are usually
clinically silent. Heart failure, valvular
dysfunction, valve replacement, embolic phenomena,
and secondary infective endocarditis can complicate
valvular abnormalities. Last Updated: May 23, 2006 |
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Managing patients with non-ST-segment elevation |
|
|
NS343 Coady E (2006) Nursing
Standard. 20, 37, 49-56. Date of acceptance: March
27 2006. |
| |
|
Managing systolic heart failure |
|
|
Nursing2006, July 2006, Volume 36
Number 7, Pages 36 - 42. |
| |
|
Pulmonary Vasculitis |
|
|
The Proceedings of the American
Thoracic Society 3:48-57 (2006) © 2006 The American
Thoracic Society |
| |
|
Recognizing and Preventing a Heart Attack |
|
|
Every 30 seconds, someone has a
heart attack. Half of the people who have a heart
attack die—often within the first hour of having
symptoms and before reaching a hospital. Yet, most
people wait 2 hours before seeking help. |
| |
|
Stem cell injections may prove beneficial in
treating peripheral artery disease |
|
|
Feb 10, 2006, 16:00, Reviewed by:
Dr. Rashmi Yadav. "We think this is a very promising
treatment that could help patients with severe
peripheral artery disease for whom there is now no
effective therapy." |
| |
|
Syndrome X |
|
|
Angina due to Cardiac Syndrome X |
| |
|
The push is on in pulmonary hypertension |
|
|
© 2006 Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins, Inc. Nursing Made Incredibly Easy! May/June
2006 Volume 4 Number 3, Pages 42 - 52. |
| |
|
The Role of Anti-Endothelial Cell Antibody-Mediated
Microvascular Injury in the Evolution of Pulmonary
Fibrosis in the Setting of Collagen Vascular Disease |
|
|
Am J Clin Pathol.
2007;127(1):237-247. ©2007 American Society for
Clinical Pathology. We encountered 16 patients with
connective tissue disease in whom pulmonary fibrosis
developed. Routine light microscopic,
ultrastructural, and direct immunofluorescent
analyses were conducted, and circulating antibodies,
including those of endothelial cell derivation, were
assessed using indirect immunofluorescence and
Western blot assays. Underlying diseases were
dermatomyositis, scleroderma, mixed connective
tissue disease, sclerodermatomyositis, Sjögren
syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and
anti-Ro–associated systemic lupus erythematosus.
Antibodies to one or more Ro, RNP, Jo 1, OJ, and/or
nucleolar antigens were seen in all cases and
antiphospholipid antibodies in half. All biopsies
revealed microvascular injury in concert with
intraparenchymal fibrosis; in some cases, there were
corroborative ultrastructural findings of
microvascular injury. Patterns of fibroplasia
represented nonspecific interstitial pneumonitis and
usual interstitial pneumonitis. We noted IgG, IgA,
and/or complement in the septal microvasculature. In
6 cases with available serum samples, indirect
immunofluorescent endothelial cell antibody studies
were positive and Western blot studies showed
reactivity of serum samples to numerous endothelial
cell lysate–derived proteins. Pulmonary fibrosis, a
recognized complication of systemic connective
tissue disease, develops in connective tissue
disease syndromes with pathogenetically established
immune-based microvascular injury at other sites. A
similar mechanism of antibody-mediated endothelial
cell injury may be the basis of the tissue injury
and fibrosing reparative response. |
| |
|
Treatment of Infectious Endocarditis |
|
|
US Pharm. 2007;32(5):HS-32-HS-43.
IE continues to be a life-threatening infection that
often requires a prolonged duration of antibiotic
therapy and sometimes surgery in order to be treated
appropriately. The most common organisms causing IE
are Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Enterococcus
species. The infecting organism, susceptibility
patterns, and AHA guideline recommendations should
be considered to guide antibiotic therapy as well as
the duration of treatment. Newer treatment options
for drug-resistant organisms such as MRSA and VRE
need to be added to the repertoire of drugs that are
currently available for the treatment of IE.
However, further research on these agents is needed
to establish their safety and efficacy for use in
this setting. |
| |
|
What Is Peripheral Arterial Disease? |
|
|
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
occurs when a fatty material called plaque (plak)
builds up on the inside walls of the arteries that
carry blood from the heart to the head, internal
organs, and limbs. PAD is also known as
atherosclerotic peripheral arterial disease. The
buildup of plaque on the artery walls is called
atherosclerosis (ath-er-o-skler-O-sis), or hardening
of the arteries. Atherosclerosis causes the arteries
to narrow or become blocked, which can reduce or
block blood flow. PAD most commonly affects blood
flow to the legs. Blocked blood flow can cause pain
and numbness. It also can increase a person's chance
of getting an infection, and it can make it
difficult for the person's body to fight the
infection. If severe enough, blocked blood flow can
cause tissue death (gangrene). PAD is the leading
cause of leg amputation. June 2006 |
| |
|
Workup in chronic lower-extremity ischemia |
|
|
© 2005 WebMD Inc. All rights
reserved. |
| |
|
Top of Page |
|
|
Disability Resources
|
|
ADA
Technical Assistance Program |
|
|
Your comprehensive Resource for
Information on the Americans with Disabilities Act,
Accessible Information Technology, and more! |
| |
|
Advocacy for Patients with Chronic Illness, Inc. |
|
|
Advocacy for Patients with
Chronic Illness, Inc. will provide advocacy services
not including litigation. If your claim cannot be
resolved without litigation, we will attempt to
refer you to an attorney in your area to bring suit
on your behalf. |
| |
|
American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) |
|
|
The largest national nonprofit
cross-disability member organization in the United
States, dedicated to ensuring economic
self-sufficiency and political empowerment for the
more than 56 million Americans with disabilities.
AAPD works in coalition with other disability
organizations for the full implementation and
enforcement of disability nondiscrimination laws,
particularly the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) of 1990 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. |
| |
|
Angel Flight |
|
|
A non-profit charitable air
medical transportation organization serving needy
people and their families. We provide access to
specialized medical evaluation, diagnosis, treatment
and rehabilitation. |
| |
|
Benefits For People With Disabilities |
|
|
The Social Security and
Supplemental Security Income disability programs are
the largest of several Federal programs that provide
assistance to people with disabilities. While these
two programs are different in many ways, both are
administered by the Social Security Administration
and only individuals who have a disability and meet
medical criteria may qualify for benefits under
either program. |
| |
|
But You LOOK Good! |
|
|
But You LOOK Good! is a 52 page
booklet that gives those living with chronic illness
and pain a voice about how they feel, what they need
and how others can be an encouragement to them. It
is a convenient, informative way to educate loved
ones about what people living with ongoing illness
and pain struggle with, fight for and need from
their friends and family. It is easy to read, gives
practical ideas on how loved ones can be supportive
and is not too long for readers to lose interest! |
| |
|
Coping with Autoimmunity |
|
|
When you are diagnosed with a
serious chronic autoimmune disease, it is normal to
question your well-being and your mental ability to
cope with the life changes that are part of living
successfully-with any serious chronic illness. A few
basic suggestions are crucial for you to consider in
order for you to manage your illness better. |
| |
|
Disability Evaluation Under Social Security |
|
|
Blue Book- January 2005 |
| |
|
Disability Evaluation Under Social Security |
|
|
Listing of Impairments - Adult
Listings (Part A) Blue Book- January 2005 |
| |
|
Disability Evaluation Under Social Security |
|
|
Listing of Impairments -
Childhood Listings (Part B) Blue Book- January 2005 |
| |
|
Disabled often overlooked in crisis planning |
|
|
Agency warns many could perish
when disaster strikes |
| |
|
Disabled Online |
|
|
We are dedicated to providing
beneficial resources for the disabled community and
their families and friends. DisabledOnline.com
offers something for everyone, including: news
stories, message boards, disabled topics and chat
rooms. We encourage you to use DisabledOnline.com as
a place to meet people and gain information that can
improve someone's life. Feel free to share our site
with your friends and loved ones. Disabled Online is
continuously growing, striving to deliver the
subjects and tools that meet your needs. |
| |
|
Disaboom.com |
|
|
Disaboom.com is the revolutionary
solution to the difficulties faced by an untapped
market of more than 650 million adults worldwide
living with disabilities and a valuable resource for
their caregivers, families, rehabilitation providers
and employers. People who have suffered from stroke,
spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, brain
injuries, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, arthritis,
knee replacements, hip replacements and back surgery
have unique needs. Founded by J. Glen House, M.D.,
who is currently the Medical Director of Penrose
Hospital’s Center for Neuro & Trauma Rehabilitation
as well as a quadriplegic and leading voice for the
disabled community, Disaboom.com is designed by
doctors and fellow Disaboomers and is the first
online company dedicated to providing a
comprehensive resource to meet this market’s
specific needs with customized expertise. |
| |
|
DRM Guide to Disability Resources on the Internet |
|
|
Disability Resources, inc. is a
nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization established to
promote and improve awareness, availability and
accessibility of information that can help people
with disabilities live, learn, love, work and play
independently. |
| |
|
Emergency Preparedness: Taking Responsiblity for
Your Safety |
|
|
Tips for People with Disabities
and Activity Limitations. |
| |
|
Employment Support For People with Disabilities |
|
|
Our Mission is to promote the
employment of Social Security beneficiaries with
disabilities by... Designing policies that make work
pay. Promoting research and program innovation.
Educating the public about programs and services
that facilitate entry into the workforce. Partnering
with other public and private groups to remove
employment barriers for people with disabilities. |
| |
|
Government Funding - Grants - Loans - Ramp Products
for Persons with Disabilities |
|
|
A comprehensive network of
assistance and information programs for the
physically handicapped and wheelchair bound, to
increase access to assistive technology devices and
services for individuals with disabilities and their
families. |
| |
|
Home Modification |
|
|
AJN, American Journal of Nursing,
October 2006, Volume 106 Number 10, Pages 54 - 63 |
| |
|
How the New Medicare Drug Benefit Could Affect
Vulnerable Populations |
|
|
Health Aff. 2006;25(1):248-255.
©2006 Project HOPE Posted 01/18/2006 Lower-income
seniors and those with chronic illnesses could
continue to have difficulty paying for their
medications. |
| |
|
I'm Adapting to Disabilities |
|
|
|
| |
|
Missing Out on Benefits? |
|
|
BenefitsCheckUp helps thousands
of people every day to connect to government
programs that can help them pay for prescription
drugs, health care, utilities, and other needs. |
| |
|
Money Matters |
|
|
Dealing with a debt crisis can
certainly have a devastating affect on your way of
life. When you feel like there is nowhere else to
turn, turn to our staff to provide you with avenues
you can use in order to remedy the situation and get
on with your life. |
| |
|
National Dissemination Center for Children with
Disabilities (NICHCY) |
|
|
We serve the nation as a central
source of information on: disabilities in infants,
toddlers, children, and youth, IDEA, which is the
law authorizing special education, No Child Left
Behind (as it relates to children with
disabilities), and research-based information on
effective educational practices. |
| |
|
Patient Travel and Lodging |
|
|
Links to charitable or special
fare flights to research and treatment sites, a
nationwide directory of hospital hospitality houses
for patients and families, and fee-for-service
ambulance services. Note: The organizations listed
below are not Government agencies, and ORD does not
endorse or promote any of these organizations. When
you enter the Web sites listed below, you will leave
the ORD Web site. Please return to our Web site to
find more information on rare diseases research and
related information, patient support groups and
genetic testing laboratories and clinics. |
| |
|
School Services You May Not Know About |
|
|
By Margaret Gelbwasser Services
and programs your child's school offers that you
probably don't know about. |
| |
|
Setting Goals While You Cope with a Chronic Illness |
|
|
Our society as a whole is very
goal-oriented, and when you have a chronic illness
like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Fibromyalgia you
may feel discouraged when you can't accomplish as
much as "everyone else" does. Setting goals gives
you a way to work toward and measure your
accomplishments. |
| |
|
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY SSI BENEFITS |
|
|
Applying for social security
disability and SSI benefits, with or without an
advocate can be difficult due to how long a claim
may take and the high chance of being denied. But
those who are denied disability can win benefits by
utilizing the appeals process. To increase the
chances of winning, applicants should learn about
the system and file an appeal when a claim is
denied. |
| |
|
Social
Security Online |
|
|
|
| |
|
Supporting Self-management in Patients with Chronic
Illness |
|
|
Am Fam Physician 2005;72:1503-10.
Copyright © 2005 American Academy of Family
Physicians. |
| |
|
The ADA: Your Employment Rights as an Individual
With a Disability |
|
|
The Americans with Disabilities
Act of 1990 (ADA) makes it unlawful to discriminate
in employment against a qualified individual with a
disability. The ADA also outlaws discrimination
against individuals with disabilities in State and
local government services, public accommodations,
transportation and telecommunications. This booklet
explains the part of the ADA that prohibits job
discrimination. This part of the law is enforced by
the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and
State and local civil rights enforcement agencies
that work with the Commission. |
| |
|
The
Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool (BEST) |
|
|
The Benefit Eligibility Screening
Tool (BEST) is a tool that you can use to find out
if you could be eligible for benefits from any of
the programs Social Security administers. This tool
will give you eligibility information based on
answers you give to the questions on the following
pages; however, BEST is not an application for
benefits and: will not give you an estimate of
benefit amounts. does not know, or ask for, your
name or Social Security number. does not access your
personal Social Security records. |
| |
|
The National Financial Resources Guidebook for
Patients |
|
|
The National Financial Resources
Guidebook for Patients: A State by State Directory
of information for patients seeking financial relief
for a broad range of needs including housing,
utilities, food, transportation to medical
treatment, and children's resources. |
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Website of the National Patient Air Transport
HELPLINE |
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The NATIONAL PATIENT TRAVEL
HELPLINE provides information about all forms of
charitable, long-distance medical air transportation
and provides referrals to all appropriate sources of
help available in the national charitable medical
air transportation network. |
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Welcome to Modest Needs® |
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Modest Needs® is a non-profit
organization reaching out to hard-working
individuals and families who suddenly find
themselves faced with small, emergency expenses that
they have no way to afford on their own. |
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You're Able |
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Information, products and
services for disabled community |
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