Final answer:
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies in the blood. It can lead to an increased risk of blood clots, pregnancy complications, and autoimmune diseases. Risk factors include being female, obesity, and pregnancy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies in the blood. These antibodies target phospholipids, which are a type of fat found in cell membranes including those in blood vessels. APS can lead to an increased risk of blood clots, pregnancy complications, and autoimmune diseases.
Risk factors for APS include being female, obesity, pregnancy, and certain genetic factors. The presence of antiphospholipid antibodies can be detected through blood tests.
For example, one of the tests used to diagnose APS is the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test, which detects the presence of antibodies that bind to cardiolipin, a specific phospholipid.