Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), also called Hughes Syndrome, is a condition of the immune system which can lead to an increased chance of blood clots. People who have APS are at higher risk of developing certain conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Antiphospholipid syndrome happens when the immune system produces antibodies by mistake which make the blood more likely to clot. The antibodies produced usually protect your body against invaders like bacteria and viruses.
Specific symptoms of antiphospholipid syndrome have been associated with blood clots. Clots can occur in the vessels that carry blood to your heart in the arteries. Any organ system of your body might be involved while the brain, lungs and lower limbs are most often affected. APS can lead to significant complications in pregnancy.
The severity of APS differs - from minor blood clots that present few problems to an extremely rare form where several clots form all over the body, although in the majority of cases, blood clots develop in only one site.
When blood clots affect blood flow to the brain, issues such as stroke or stroke-like episodes called transient ischemic attacks will be the result. Less frequently there may be abnormal shaking, seizures or involuntary muscle movements (chorea).
Select the test that you would like to undergo
Go to the Harley Street clinic for your blood draw and pay for your test in person
As soon as the results are ready, the will be sent to you by your chosen method
