Hughes syndrome
Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) is a rare but serious complication of a ntiphospholipid syndrome (APS) . It occurs in less than 1% of people with APS.
In people who develop CAPS, blood clots suddenly form throughout the body, resulting in multiple organ failure.
It's not clear what causes this but one case in five occurs after an infection, trauma or surgery.
The initial symptoms can be wide-ranging, depending on which organs are involved. Symptoms may include:
The symptoms usually develop suddenly and rapidly get worse.
Dial 999 and ask for an ambulance immediately if you or someone you know has APS that suddenly gets worse.
Immediate admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) is required for people with CAPS so the body's functions can be supported. High-dose anticoagulants are used to stop the blood clots getting bigger while they are slowly absorbed by the body.
However, even with the best available treatment, an estimated 50% of people die as a result of the condition.
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), also known as Hughes syndrome, is a disorder of the immune system that causes an increased risk of blood clots.
In antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), the immune system produces abnormal antibodies which make the blood stickier than normal.
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is caused by the bodys immune system producing abnormal antibodies called antiphospholipid antibodies.
It is very important that an accurate diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is made because the blood clots that occur as a result of APS can have serious consequences.
Treatment for antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) aims to reduce your risk of developing more blood clots.
Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) is a rare but very serious complication of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).