Phosphatidylserine (PS) antibodies are autoantibodies associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Phosphatidylserine is a negatively charged phospholipid found in cell membranes, particularly in platelets and endothelial cells. Anti-phosphatidylserine antibodies belong to the antiphospholipid antibody family and are considered a potential cause of APS.
Clinical Significance
- Anti-phosphatidylserine IgG antibodies can disrupt platelet function and endothelial integrity, leading to blood clot formation (deep vein thrombosis, stroke).
- These antibodies are commonly found in patients with autoimmune diseases, particularly APS.
- APS is associated with:
- Increased risk of blood clots
- Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
- Pregnancy complications (miscarriages, preeclampsia, fetal loss)
- Take the test at least 2 hours after the last meal.
- Avoid smoking for 3 hours before the test.
- Avoid physical and emotional stress for 1 hour before the test.
- Suspected Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS)
- Unexplained thrombosis (arterial or venous)
- Recurrent pregnancy loss
- Thrombocytopenia
Positive Anti-Phosphatidylserine IgG Test May Indicate:
- Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) (confirmed with two or more positive tests at least 6 weeks apart)
- Systemic autoimmune diseases (especially systemic lupus erythematosus - SLE)
- Infectious diseases (e.g., Hepatitis C, malaria, Lyme disease, syphilis, HIV)
- Drug-induced antibodies
- Malignancies (cancer, leukemia)
- Alcoholic liver disease (cirrhosis)
Negative Anti-Phosphatidylserine IgG Test:
- No evidence of APS or related conditions.