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Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) and Livedoid Vasculopathy (LV)

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  Overview Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune condition characterized by an increased tendency for blood clot formation (thrombosis). It is often associated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and may occur as a secondary condition in lupus patients. Although APS is not formally classified as a systemic vasculitis, it is best described as a thrombo-inflammatory disorder. Its hallmark is non-inflammatory vascular injury caused by clotting, but it can sometimes mimic or overlap with vasculitic diseases. Livedoid Vasculopathy (LV), on the other hand, is a rare, chronic, and painful thrombo-occlusive disease that primarily affects the small blood vessels of the skin, especially in the lower legs. Despite its name, LV is not a true inflammatory vasculitis but rather a disorder driven by microvascular thrombosis. APS and Vasculitis: Overlap and Distinction A key challenge in clinical practice is distinguishing APS from true vasculitis: Different mechanisms :...
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Adult Supraglottic Airway Inflammation: A Medical Emergency

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This condition involves rapid inflammation and swelling of structures at the entrance of the airway, particularly the flap of tissue at the base of the tongue that helps prevent food from entering the lungs during swallowing. When this tissue becomes inflamed, it can obstruct airflow, leading to severe breathing difficulties and, if untreated, death. Although historically more common in children, widespread vaccination against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) has shifted the burden of disease toward adults. Causes In adults, the condition is most often caused by bacterial infection. Common pathogens include Streptococcus pneumoniae , Staphylococcus aureus , and Haemophilus influenzae type b, though Hib now accounts for a smaller proportion of cases than in the past. Other bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae , Pasteurella multocida , and Fusobacterium necrophorum may also be involved. Viral infections, including herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and Epstein–Barr ...
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