Controversies in Antiphospholipid Syndrome: Warfarin Therapy Duration
Author Information
Author(s): Ana G Fonseca, David P D'Cruz
Primary Institution: The Lupus Research Unit, the Rayne Institute, St. Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
Hypothesis
What is the optimal duration of warfarin therapy for patients with antiphospholipid syndrome after a first venous thromboembolic event?
Conclusion
Indefinite, life-long warfarin therapy is currently recommended for patients with antiphospholipid syndrome to prevent recurrent venous thrombosis.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients with antiphospholipid syndrome are at high risk for recurrent blood clots.
- Indefinite anticoagulation therapy is essential for patients with multiple thrombotic events.
- Controversies exist regarding the optimal duration of warfarin therapy.
Takeaway
Patients with a condition called antiphospholipid syndrome need to take a blood thinner called warfarin for a long time to prevent blood clots.
Methodology
The article reviews and analyzes existing studies on the duration of warfarin therapy in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome.
Potential Biases
Most studies included small numbers of patients and had no control groups, which may affect the reliability of the results.
Limitations
The existing data is not comprehensive enough to strongly support decisions on the optimal duration of therapy after a first venous thromboembolic event.
Participant Demographics
Patients with antiphospholipid syndrome, including those with and without underlying systemic autoimmune diseases.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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