What is the significance of antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with SLE?

Antiphospholipid antibodies are significant in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) primarily because they indicate a potential for thrombosis. These antibodies are associated with antiphospholipid syndrome, which is characterized by an increased risk of both venous and arterial thromboses. Their presence can lead to complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and stroke.

In SLE, the presence of these antibodies can complicate the disease course and management, as they are linked to certain clinical manifestations, including fetal loss in pregnant women and thrombotic events at any stage of life. This aspect underscores the importance of monitoring patients with SLE for these antibodies, as it can provide insight into the risk for thromboembolic events and guide treatment decisions.

The other options do not accurately reflect the role of antiphospholipid antibodies in SLE. They are not suggestive of chronic infection, nor do they have no clinical significance; their presence is indeed clinically relevant and directly impacts patient management. Additionally, while antiphospholipid antibodies can be associated with various manifestations of lupus, they do not confirm the presence of lupus nephritis, which is primarily diagnosed through clinical findings and laboratory tests separate from antibody