Which are the symptoms of Asherson’s Syndrome / Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome?

Symptoms of Asherson’s Syndrome / Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Asherson’s Syndrome, also known as Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome (CAPS), is a rare and severe autoimmune disorder characterized by the formation of blood clots in small blood vessels throughout the body. This condition primarily affects young to middle-aged adults and can be life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and treated.

1. Blood Clots: The hallmark symptom of Asherson’s Syndrome is the formation of blood clots, which can occur in various organs and tissues. These blood clots can lead to organ damage and dysfunction, affecting vital organs such as the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, and skin.

2. Multi-organ Dysfunction: Asherson’s Syndrome often presents as a multi-organ disorder due to the widespread formation of blood clots. This can result in symptoms specific to the affected organs. For example:

• Brain: Blood clots in the brain can cause strokes, seizures, confusion, memory loss, and other neurological symptoms.


• Heart: Clots in the coronary arteries can lead to heart attacks, chest pain, and heart failure.


• Lungs: Blood clots in the lungs can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and pulmonary hypertension.


• Kidneys: Clots in the kidneys can result in kidney failure, leading to decreased urine output, swelling, and high blood pressure.


• Skin: Skin manifestations may include livedo reticularis (a lace-like pattern on the skin), ulcers, and necrosis.

3. Fever: Many individuals with Asherson’s Syndrome experience a persistent high-grade fever, which may be accompanied by chills and sweating. This fever is often a result of the underlying inflammation and clotting processes occurring in the body.

4. Hematological Abnormalities: Patients with Asherson’s Syndrome may exhibit abnormalities in their blood tests, including:

• Thrombocytopenia: A decrease in platelet count, which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding.


• Coagulation Disorders: Abnormalities in the coagulation cascade, such as prolonged clotting times or elevated levels of clotting factors.


• Anemia: A decrease in red blood cell count, resulting in fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

5. Other Symptoms: Additional symptoms that may be present in Asherson’s Syndrome include:

• Abdominal pain


• Nausea and vomiting


• Joint pain and swelling


• Headaches


• Weight loss


• Raynaud's phenomenon (color changes in fingers and toes in response to cold or stress)

If you suspect you or someone you know may have Asherson’s Syndrome, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent further organ damage and improve outcomes.