ANTIPHOSPHOLIPID SYNDROME: AN UNDERDIAGNOSED CAUSE OF RECURRENT THROMBOSIS

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) as a possible cause of recurrent thrombosis, addressing its pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical manifestations, factors associated with recurrence, diagnostic aspects, and therapeutic strategies. This is an integrative literature review conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases, employing the descriptors “Thrombosis,” “Antiphospholipid Syndrome,” and “Treatment,” as well as their corresponding terms in English. A total of 2,589 articles were identified, of which 25 were selected after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria and analyzing their titles, abstracts, and full texts. The results demonstrated an association between APS and the occurrence of recurrent thrombotic events, with a higher risk observed in patients with high-risk serological profiles, particularly those with lupus anticoagulant and triple positivity for antiphospholipid antibodies. The analysis also highlighted challenges related to diagnosis and the interpretation of laboratory tests, as well as the importance of individualized anticoagulation for secondary prevention. It is concluded that APS should be considered when investigating patients with recurrent thrombosis and suggestive clinical characteristics, with integration of clinical assessment, laboratory investigation, and appropriate therapeutic strategy being essential.