Valvular dysfunction in antiphospholipid syndrome: prevalence, clinical features, and treatment

Semin Arthritis Rheum. 1997 Aug;27(1):27-35. doi: 10.1016/s0049-0172(97)80034-0.

Abstract

Valvular abnormalities develop in 36% and 35% of patients with primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) and with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) respectively, and in 48% of patients with SLE and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Valvulopathy includes leaflet thickening, vegetations, regurgitation, and stenosis. A literature survey shows that significant morbidity from valvular dysfunction, mostly mitral regurgitation leading to congestive heart failure, occurs in 4% and 6% of SLE and PAPS patients, respectively. The pathogenesis of valvulopathy may involve interaction of aPL with antigens on the valve surface, resulting in valvulitis. Current therapy includes symptomatic measures and valve replacement. A novel approach for symptomatic antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) related valvulopathy involves treatment with systemic corticosteroid. We describe four such patients and their dramatic clinical and hemodynamic response to treatment with prednisone when symptomatic measures failed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / administration & dosage
  • Adult
  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome / complications*
  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Heart Valve Diseases / drug therapy
  • Heart Valve Diseases / epidemiology
  • Heart Valve Diseases / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / complications
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / epidemiology
  • Middle Aged
  • Prevalence
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones