The presence of antiphospholipid antibodies in plasma is a risk factor for thrombo-embolic
complications. In vitro, however, the same antibodies can prolong clotting times in
coagulation assays, a classic marker for a bleeding tendency. For years this contradiction
puzzles many scientists. We now know that the term antiphospholipid antibodies comprises
a heterogeneous population of antibodies and there is growing evidence that only
subpopulations of antiphospholipid antibodies are relevant for the clinical complication. In …