Wallach's Interpretation of Diagnostic Tests: Pathways to Arriving at a Clinical Diagnosis (705 page)

   Cardiolipins, and other related phospholipids, are lipid molecules found in cell membranes and platelets. They play an important role in the blood clotting process. When antibodies are formed against cardiolipins (ACAs against IgG, IgM, and IgA), they increase an affected patient’s risk of developing recurrent inappropriate blood clots (thrombi) in both arteries and veins.

   Other names include antiphospholipid antibodies.

   
Normal range:
see Table 16.6.

TABLE 16–6. Normal Levels of ACAs

   Use

   Evaluation of suspected cases of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS).

   Unexplained blood clot.

   Recurrent miscarriages.

   ACAs are present in APS, SLE, acute infections, HIV, and certain cancers and with some drug (e.g., phenytoin, penicillin, procainamide). They occur in the general population, with the prevalence increasing with age.

   Interpretation

   APS is present if at least one of the clinical criteria and one of the laboratory criteria that follow are met.

   
Clinical criteria

Vascular thrombosis