Migraine and the lupus anticoagulant. Case reports and review of the literature.
Lupus anticoagulants (LA) are antiphospholipid serum immunoglobulins generally associated with autoimmune conditions, especially systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). They have recently been linked to thrombotic events, including stroke. A possible association of migraine with LA is now forwarded with the presentation of two cases and a literature review. Our two patients, both in their forties, had migrainous phenomena without SLE or thrombotic events. Eight other cases were found in the literature, suggesting more than a chance association. Relevance to migraine pathophysiology is discussed and may come from the ability of the LA to alter prostaglandins and platelet activity and to interact with neuronal phospholipids. Further, larger studies are needed to support this association.
D000328:Adult; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000276:immunology*; D001779:Blood Coagulation Factors / Q000032:analysis / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D016682:Lupus Coagulation Inhibitor; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000276:immunology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008881:Migraine Disorders / Q000276:immunology*; D010314:Partial Thromboplastin Time
D001779:Blood Coagulation Factors; D016682:Lupus Coagulation Inhibitor