IgM antiphospholipid antibodies

Why this test? 

To determine the causes of thrombotic microangiopathy, repeated fetal loss in the late stages of pregnancy, thrombocytopenia and a long time of thromboplastin formation.

In what cases is it prescribed? 

If antiphospholipid syndrome is suspected several times (twice with an interval of at least 6 weeks). 

With repeated miscarriages - as an addition to the test for the time of thromboplastin formation. 

With repeated episodes of thrombosis at a young age. 

With thrombocytopenia. 

With symptoms of thrombotic microangiopathy (pain and swelling of the limbs, shortness of breath and headaches).

Testing preparation 

Stop taking heparin and its analogues 5 days before the testing. 

Test information 

Analysis of antiphospholipid antibodies is necessary to detect specific phospholipid-binding proteins that the body forms against itself as a result of an autoimmune reaction to phospholipids. Phospholipids - an integral part of body cells - are part of cell membranes and platelets. They are, in fact, fat molecules that play a key role in blood clotting, although the mechanism of their effect remains unclear. Antiphospholipids increase the risk of blood coagulation disorders and the formation of blood clots in arteries and veins, which can lead to strokes and heart attacks. 

Antiphospholipid antibodies are also associated with the development of thrombocytopenia (a decrease in platelets in the blood), with the risk of repeated miscarriages (especially in the second and last third of pregnancy), with premature birth and with toxicosis in the last stages of pregnancy (preeclampsia). 

The presence of these antibodies is part of a symptom complex called antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), or Hughes-Stovin syndrome. It also includes thrombosis, obstetric pathologies (miscarriages, habitual miscarriage), thrombocytopenia. APS can be associated with other autoimmune diseases, especially systemic lupus erythematosus (secondary APS), or develop without accompanying pathologies (primary APS). 

However, antiphospholipid antibodies often appear in the body in such autoimmune disorders as systemic lupus erythematosus, in addition, they can also be observed in HIV infection, some types of cancer, taking drugs, for example, phenothiazines and novocainamide.

In this regard, the determination of anticardiolipin antibodies is an additional analysis and in itself is not a criterion for the presence of APS - the diagnosis of APS should be complex and include several clinical indicators.