title: The antiphospholipid antibody syndrome: a case report.
abstract: Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is defined by the presence of thromboembolic complications and/or pregnancy morbidity in the presence of persistently increased titers of antiphospholipid antibodies. Its clinical presentation can be diverse and any organ can be involved, with a current impact in most surgical and medical specialties. The authors present the case of a 43-year-old man who, over a 13-year period of follow-up, presented with thrombosis of the mesenteric vein, inferior vena cava, and axillary and subclavian veins in a setting where diagnostic and therapeutic options are limited and costly. Through this case report, the authors aim to describe the evolution of this complex pathology, which to date has not been described in the authors' milieu - probably because of its challenging diagnosis and the limited treatment options available. The authors conclude that clinicians need to have a high index of suspicion of APS in patients who present with a thrombotic episode - clinicians should investigate for the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies, as early diagnosis may influence the course of the disease. Furthermore, resources for the detection of antiphospholipid antibodies should be made readily available in resource-limited settings. Finally, patient education on the importance of drug compliance, periodic monitoring, and prevention of thrombosis is indispensable, especially as mortality could be associated with the effects of vascular thrombosis and/or the effects of bleeding due to anticoagulants.
authors.affiliation: Department of Internal Medicine, Douala General Hospital, Douala, Cameroon ; Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon.
authors.forename: Henry Namme
authors.initials: HN
authors.lastname: Luma
authors.forename: Marie-Solange
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Doualla
authors.forename: Elvis
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Temfack
authors.forename: Servais Albert Fiacre Eloumou
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Bagnaka
authors.forename: Emmanuella Wankie
authors.initials: EW
authors.lastname: Mankaa
authors.forename: Dobgima
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Fofung
keywords: Budd-Chiari syndrome; Cameroon; anticardiolipin antibodies; mesenteric venous thrombosis; thrombosis