Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

Which two treatments are commonly used for patients with antiphospholipid syndrome?

1. Statins and steroids

2. Aspirin and heparin

3. NSAIDs and anticoagulants

4. Warfarin and clotting factors

The correct answer is: Aspirin and heparin

The relationship between aspirin and heparin is foundational in the management of antiphospholipid syndrome, especially to reduce the risk of thrombosis. Antiphospholipid syndrome is characterized by an increased tendency to form blood clots due to the presence of specific antibodies that interfere with the normal coagulation process. Aspirin is an antiplatelet medication that helps prevent blood clots by inhibiting platelet aggregation, thereby reducing the risk of arterial thrombosis. Heparin, on the other hand, is an anticoagulant that directly inhibits the coagulation pathway, thereby preventing both venous and arterial thrombus formation. The combination of these two medications is particularly effective in managing patients at high risk of thrombotic events. In clinical practice, this dual approach is often employed in various settings, such as during pregnancy or after thrombotic episodes, to provide comprehensive protection against the increased clotting tendency seen in antiphospholipid syndrome.