National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome


Other Names:
Catastrophic antiphospholipid antibody syndrome; Thrombotic storm
This disease is grouped under:
Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) is a rare form of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). In CAPS multiple blood clots form throughout the body over a short period of time (usually within a week). CAPS is a medical emergency, as clots can cause life-threatening multi-organ failure. The cause of CAPS is unknown. A widely accepted explanation is that it is caused by a combination of gene mutations (making one more susceptible to CAPS) and an environmental trigger, such as an infection, trauma, or surgery.[1]
Last updated: 5/25/2016

Research helps us better understand diseases and can lead to advances in diagnosis and treatment. This section provides resources to help you learn about medical research and ways to get involved.

Clinical Research Resources

  • ClinicalTrials.gov lists trials that are related to Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome. Click on the link to go to ClinicalTrials.gov to read descriptions of these studies.

    Please note: Studies listed on the ClinicalTrials.gov website are listed for informational purposes only; being listed does not reflect an endorsement by GARD or the NIH. We strongly recommend that you talk with a trusted healthcare provider before choosing to participate in any clinical study.

Support and advocacy groups can help you connect with other patients and families, and they can provide valuable services. Many develop patient-centered information and are the driving force behind research for better treatments and possible cures. They can direct you to research, resources, and services. Many organizations also have experts who serve as medical advisors or provide lists of doctors/clinics. Visit the group’s website or contact them to learn about the services they offer. Inclusion on this list is not an endorsement by GARD.

Organizations Supporting this Disease

Organizations Providing General Support

These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

Where to Start

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  1. Erkan D. Top 10 Points Patients Should Know About Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome. Hospital for Special Surgery. Last reviewed April 28, 2016; https://www.hss.edu/conditions_top-ten-points-for-patients-catastrophic-antiphospholipid-syndrome.asp. Accessed 5/25/2016.