Antiphospholipid Antibody Induced Ischemic Stroke
Word Count : 3000
Objectives to cover:
ntroduction: Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder causing hypercoagulability and thrombotic events.
Epidemiology: APS-related stroke commonly affects young and middle-aged adults without traditional risk factors.
Pathophysiology: Antiphospholipid antibodies promote arterial thrombosis through endothelial dysfunction and platelet activation.
Risk Factors: Coexisting lupus, smoking, oral contraceptive use, and hypertension increase stroke risk.
Clinical Presentation: Patients typically present with sudden focal neurological deficits suggestive of acute ischemic stroke.
Diagnostic Evaluation: Diagnosis requires positive antiphospholipid antibody tests along with imaging-confirmed cerebral infarction.
Management: Acute treatment includes reperfusion therapy followed by long-term anticoagulation.
Complications: Recurrent strokes and systemic thrombotic events may occur without adequate therapy.
Conclusion: Early recognition and sustained anticoagulation are crucial to prevent recurrence and improve outcomes.