The Medical journal of Australia
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Antiphospholipid syndrome is characterised by recurrent thrombosis (arterial, venous, microvascular) and/or pregnancy complications in the presence of persistent antiphospholipid antibodies (lupus anticoagulant, anti-β2-glycoprotein 1 and anticardiolipin). It can be a primary disease or associated with another autoimmune disease (especially systemic lupus erythematosis). ⋯ If associated with systemic lupus erythematosis, hydroxychloroquine is recommended both as primary and secondary prophylaxis. Antithrombotic treatment is gold standard and effective.
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Infections in pregnancy represent a challenging and often underappreciated area of concern for many specialists and general practitioners and can cause serious sequelae. Antenatal status should be highlighted on pathology request forms, as this serves to alert the laboratory of the need to store serum for an extended period. Prior antenatal specimens can be forwarded to other laboratories to enable testing in parallel with the more recent sample. ⋯ Preventive steps including hand hygiene and avoiding contact with children's urine, mucous and saliva are recommended for all pregnant women. The incidence of parvovirus B19 infection in pregnancy is unknown. This infection is highly contagious and may result in fetal loss; particularly in the first half of pregnancy, pregnant women should avoid contact with adults or children who may have an infection.