Put Hughes Syndrome on Your Radar

Third, the use of immunosuppressives has as yet had little effect on disease manifestations. However, research showing possible direct effects of aPL (e.g., neuronal tissue) and the increasing anecdotal experience of success in APS with new agents such as rituximab may stimulate a reappraisal.

Summary

This review highlights some of the clinical and diagnostic aspects of APS, or Hughes Syndrome. With recognition of the syndrome spreading to all disciplines of medicine, the clinical approach to many diseases is changing. APS is proving a differential diagnosis in diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease and in clinical research it is providing insights into mechanisms of hypertension and accelerated atheroma. In the world of lupus, the recognition of APS has had a profound impact both on diagnosis and on treatment.

Dr. Hughes is head of the London Lupus Centre and London Bridge Hospital.

References

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