Recurrent Intestinal Perforation Associated with Thrombosis of Inferior Vena Cava: Uncommon Presentation of Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Abstract

To the Editor: Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is characterized by a state of hypercoagulability potentially resulting in thrombosis of all segments of the vascular bed1,2, fetal loss, and moderate thrombocytopenia3,4. APS is associated with elevated titers of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and/or lupus anticoagulant (LAC)5,6. Gastrointestinal manifestations are rarely observed (about 1.5% of patients) and intestinal infarction, resulting from mesenteric vessel thrombosis, has been infrequently reported3. The presentation may be acute (acute abdomen), often preceded by intestinal angina1. Rarely, thrombosis of large vessels (aorta and inferior vena cava) has also been reported in association with aPL7. We describe a case of recurrent ...