Tunisian Journal of Emergency Medicine

Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome: litterature review and case report

Authors
  • Houda Ben Soltane

    faculty of medicine of sousse
  • rebeh baazaoui

    faculty of medicine of sousse
  • ons haddaji

    University of Sousse image/svg+xml
  • fatma Lihiou

    faculty of medicine of sousse
  • mariem khrouf

    faculty of medicine of sousse
  • anis haj hassine

    faculty of medicine of sousse
  • fatma Kacem

    faculty of medicine of sousse
  • zied mezgar

    faculty of medicine of sousse
Keywords:
Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome, thrombosis, microcirculation, autoimmune
Abstract

Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) is a rare and life-threatening condition characterized by the simultaneous occurrence of multiple thrombotic events, predominantly affecting the microcirculation. We present a case report of CAPS in a 55-year-old male patient with no notable pathological history who presented with diffuse abdominal pain and subsequently developed neurological and renal manifestations. This case report is complemented by a comprehensive literature review of CAPS, highlighting its epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options.

Our literature review included a thorough search of various databases and search engines, including PubMed/Medline,  Google Scholar, and Cochrane, in both English and French languages. We adhered to patient data protection guidelines, ensuring confidentiality throughout the report.

 CAPS is associated with a significant morbidity and mortality rate, with a high short-term mortality rate particularly in the acute phase. Prompt recognition and early initiation of treatment, such as the "Triple Therapy" approach involving intravenous heparin, oral anticoagulation, and corticosteroids, are crucial for improving patient outcomes. In refractory cases, Rituximab and Eculizumab have shown promise as alternative treatment options.

 Our case report underscores the importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate management of CAPS. Further research and collaboration among healthcare professionals are warranted to enhance our understanding of this complex syndrome and improve patient care

Author Biographies
  1. Houda Ben Soltane, faculty of medicine of sousse

    associate professor in emergency medicine, Emergency Department Farhat Hached University Hospital, of Sousse, Tunisia

  2. rebeh baazaoui, faculty of medicine of sousse

    Faculty of Medicine of Sousse; 4002. University of Sousse; Tunisia.

  3. fatma Lihiou, faculty of medicine of sousse

    assistant professor in emergency medicine, Emergency Department Farhat Hached University Hospital, of Sousse, Tunisia

  4. mariem khrouf, faculty of medicine of sousse

    associate professor in emergency medicine, Emergency Department Farhat Hached University Hospital, of Sousse, Tunisia

  5. anis haj hassine, faculty of medicine of sousse

    assistant professor in emergency medicine, Emergency Department Farhat Hached University Hospital, of Sousse, Tunisia

  6. fatma Kacem, faculty of medicine of sousse

    Faculty of Medicine of Sousse; 4002. University of Sousse; Tunisia

  7. zied mezgar, faculty of medicine of sousse

    professor in emergency medicine, Emergency Department Farhat Hached University Hospital, of Sousse, Tunisia

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Published
30-09-2025
Section
Case Reports
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How to Cite

Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome: litterature review and case report. (2025). Tunisian Journal of Emergency Medicine, 3(3). https://doi.org/10.0000/8p001q70