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Anti-cardiolipin antibodies

30 Azn
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Anti-cardiolipin antibodies (aCL) belong to the antiphospholipid antibody group, which is associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Clinical Significance

  • IgG anti-cardiolipin antibodies are the most clinically significant subtype, as they are strongly associated with thrombosis and pregnancy complications.
  • They are included in the laboratory criteria for APS diagnosis, along with lupus anticoagulant and beta-2 glycoprotein 1 (β2-GP1) antibodies.
  • High levels of IgG anti-cardiolipin antibodies indicate an increased risk of venous and arterial thrombosis, recurrent pregnancy loss, and stroke.

Association with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

  • 20-50% of SLE patients have anti-cardiolipin antibodies, which significantly increase the risk of thrombosis and pregnancy complications.
  • 3-20% of patients with other systemic autoimmune diseases also test positive for these antibodies.
  • Sample: Venous blood.
  • Take the test at least 4 hours after a light meal.
  • Avoid physical exertion, emotional stress, and alcohol before the test.
  • Blood clotting disorders (thrombosis, embolism)
  • Recurrent miscarriages
  • Diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
  • Screening for antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)
  • Other autoimmune diseases

Elevated IgG Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody Levels May Indicate:

  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS)
  • Increased risk of thrombosis (deep vein thrombosis, stroke, pulmonary embolism)
  • Recurrent pregnancy loss and other pregnancy complications
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
  • Other autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis)
  • Infections (e.g., syphilis, hepatitis, HIV, tuberculosis)
  • Transient antibody elevation (can occur in some healthy individuals)

Clinical Considerations

  • A single positive test does not confirm APS; repeat testing is required after 12 weeks to confirm persistent antibody presence.
  • Low antibody titers may be temporary, especially after infections.