As antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) shares similar symptoms with multiple sclerosis, diagnosing it can sometimes be tricky.
However, it is very important that an accurate diagnosis is made because the blood clots that occur as a result of APS can have serious consequences.
Specific blood tests
To diagnose APS, the blood needs to be tested for the abnormal antiphospholipid antibodies that increase the risk of blood clots.
The blood tests used are designed to test for APS and the condition cannot be detected using routine blood tests. Two blood tests are required with a six- to eight-week gap in between them.
Sometimes, harmless antiphospholipid antibodies can develop in the body for short periods of time, often as a result of an infection or as a side effect of medication, such as antibiotics.
Therefore, if antiphospholipid antibodies are identified during the first blood test, another test will be needed at a later date.
Medical assessment
After the results of the blood tests have been confirmed, your medical history will be carefully assessed to check whether you have experienced any previous symptoms that may be caused by APS.
A diagnosis of APS can usually be confirmed if you have had:
- one or more confirmed blood clots
- one or more unexplained late-term miscarriages, at or after week 10 of your pregnancy
- one or more premature births, at or before week 34 of your pregnancy
- three or more unexplained early miscarriages, before week 10 of your pregnancy
