Antiphospholipid Antibodies in Eclampsia

Abstract

Objective: To establish the association of raised levels of antiphospho-lipid antibodies and eclampsia.

Methods: Thirty-four patients with eclampsia and 34 normotensive controls matched for maternal age, gestational age, and parity were included in the study. All had anticardiolipin antibodies and lupus anticoagulant performed by established techniques.

Results: Seven patients (21%) in the eclamptic group and 8 (24%) in the control group had raised anticardiolipin antibodies.

Conclusion: No association was found between raised antiphospholipid antibodies and eclampsia. Of interest is the association between antiphospholipid antibodies and the HELLP syndrome, which needs further investigation.

Key Words:

• Antiphospholipids
• Eclampsia