Advances in our knowledge of the pathogenic mechanisms of antiphospholipid syndrome have been achieved in the past few years. Apart from the well-known role of anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies, complement, endocrine and genetic factors and a variety of other molecules are now under investigation. These new approaches should lead to novel explanations and potential new treatment options.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The burden of stroke is high in sub-Saharan Africa, and improved knowledge of risk factors is needed. Antiphospholipid antibodies are a common acquired stroke risk factor in young individuals. Antiphospholipid antibodies may be induced by infectious diseases. Sub-Saharan Africa has a high infectious burden, and we analyzed the contribution of antiphospholipid antibodies t...