IndicationSuspected autoimmune arterial and / or venous thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, and repeated abortions. This is seen in primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematous with secondary anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS).
MethodThe analysis is performed by ELISA. Answers are given both in IgG and IgM antibodies.
AnswerThe result is reported as negative or positive with a value.
InterpretationElevated levels of IgG and / or IgM antibodies against cardiolipin at two sampling intervals of at least 12 weeks apart are markers of anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS). The syndrome is often associated with SLE (secondary APS), but also occurs without evidence of inflammatory systemic disease (primary APS). Antibodies to cardiolipin can also be seen transiently in connection with infection without relation to thrombosis.
If suspicion of APS persists in case of negative results for lupus anticoagulant, IgG and / or IgM antibodies to anti-beta2-Glycoprotein-1 and / or cardiolipin, it is recommended to analyze IgA-class antibodies against beta2-Glycoprotein-1 and Cardiolipin, which has been reported to occur in isolated cases. Antibodies against phosphatidylserine may also be of value