Rare association of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus and aortic dissection: A striking presentation with multi-organ failure?

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease with a wide variety of clinical presentations induced by different immunocomplexes and autoantibodies. Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APLAS) is a life-threatening clinical condition characterized by venous and arterial thromboses or pregnancy morbidity in the presence of persistent moderate/high levels of antiphospholipid antibodies. Aortic dissection is rarely associated with APLAS and always requires prompt diagnosis and early treatment. We report a rare case with a striking presentation. The patient developed multi-organ failure due to lethal aortic dissection and the obstruction of abdominal and thoracic branch vessels.