The antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is a multiple-system disorder characterized by persistently elevated antiphospholipid antibodies and/or arterial or venous thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, or recurrent spontaneous abortion. Anticardiolipin antibodies and the lupus anticoagulant are different classes of antiphospholipid antibodies associated with this disorder. Cutaneous manifestations are common and may be the presenting sign of the underlying disease. This article reviews the clinical manifestations, laboratory assays, histopathologic features, and treatment of the antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. (J Am Acad Dermatol 1997;36:149-68.)

Learning objective: At the conclusion of this learning activity, participants should be familiar with (1) the different antiphospholipid antibodies, (2) the assays used to detect these immunoglobulins, and (3) the clinical manifestations and treatment of the antiphospholipid antibody syndrome.