Synonyms: CAPS | Catastrophic APS
A rare systemic autoimmune disease characterized by acute onset of life-threatening thromboses in three or more organs either simultaneously or within less than a week in the presence of serum antiphospholipid antibodies (such as lupus anticoagulant anticardiolipin antibodies and anti-beta2-glycoprotein 1 antibodies) and with histopathological confirmation of small-vessel occlusion in at least one affected organ. The condition is often precipitated by infection trauma or surgery.
Data from Orphanet are used to provide information on a disease's name, synonym(s), and overview. Reference: Access aggregated data from Orphanet at Orphadata. Orphadata: Free access data from Orphanet. © INSERM 1999. Available on http://www.orphadata.org. Data version April 2026
Newly diagnosed with
Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome?
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Advocacy Organizations
APS Foundation of America, Inc
Founded in 2005, the APS Foundation of America, Inc. (APSFA) is dedicated to fostering and facilitating joint efforts in the areas of education, public awareness, research, and patient services for Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) in an effective and ethical manner.
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Clinical Trials
For a list of clinical trials in this disease area, please click here.