Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) diagnosis is crucial because untreated blood clots can lead to severe health complications. Identifying APS accurately relies on a combination of specific blood tests and a thorough medical evaluation. This guide will explain the process of diagnosing APS, ensuring you understand the necessary steps and what to expect.
Specific Blood Tests for APS Diagnosis
Diagnosing APS requires specialized blood tests designed to detect antiphospholipid antibodies. These antibodies are abnormal and increase the risk of blood clots. It’s important to note that a single blood test isn’t enough for a definitive APS diagnosis.
To confirm APS, you will need to undergo at least two positive blood tests, conducted at least 12 weeks apart. This waiting period is essential because antiphospholipid antibodies can sometimes appear temporarily in the body due to infections or as a side effect of certain medications, such as antibiotics. These temporary antibodies are usually harmless and don’t indicate APS.
If the initial blood test reveals the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies, a follow-up test after 12 weeks is necessary to determine if these antibodies are still present. Persistent antibodies, confirmed by two positive tests, are a significant factor in APS diagnosis.
Comprehensive Medical Assessment in APS Diagnosis
If blood tests confirm the presence of persistent antiphospholipid antibodies, your doctor will conduct a comprehensive medical assessment. This assessment involves a detailed review of your medical history to identify any past symptoms or events that could be related to APS.
A diagnosis of APS is typically confirmed if you have a history of one or more confirmed blood clots alongside specific clinical criteria. These clinical criteria can include:
- One or more unexplained miscarriages after the 10th week of pregnancy.
- One or more premature births before the 34th week of pregnancy.
- Three or more unexplained early miscarriages before the 10th week of pregnancy.
These pregnancy-related complications, combined with confirmed antiphospholipid antibodies and a history of blood clots, are key indicators for an APS diagnosis.
For accurate Aps Disease Diagnosis, it is important to consult with specialists. If APS is suspected, you will generally be referred to a hospital to see either a haematologist, a specialist in blood conditions, or a rheumatologist, a specialist in immune system conditions. These specialists have the expertise to interpret blood test results and medical history to provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the appropriate management plan.
