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. The formation of anti-phosphatidylserine antibodies is a type of antiphospholipid antibody and is considered a possible cause of APS.
Clinical Significance
- Antiphospholipid antibodies can alter platelet and endothelial cell function, leading to thrombosis (deep vein thrombosis, stroke).
- They are detected in autoimmune disorders, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and APS, but may also be transiently elevated in infections and malignancies.
- 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 (low platelet count)
Positive Anti-Phosphatidylserine IgM Test May Indicate:
- Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) (confirmed with 2 or more positive tests at least 6 weeks apart)
- Systemic autoimmune diseases (especially 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 IgM Test:
- No evidence of APS or related conditions.