As of March 2014
Being diagnosed with Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome (APAS) is tasking, both financially and emotionally.
In the first quarter of 2014, I have gone through a lot of tests to determine which specific immune disorder I was suffering from. Having lost two pregnancies, I transferred to a high-risk obstetrician (perinatologist), Dra. Valerie Guinto, who is affiliated with St. Lukes Global, Asian Hospital and PGH.
These were the tests that she required of me:
- Tissue Crossmatch for Category 1
- DRVVT – is a laboratory test often used for detection of lupus anticoagulant. (Category 2)
- KCT (Kaolin Clotting Time) Test – this test is for the detection of circulating anticoagulants (Category 2)
- PTT – is a performance indicator detecting abnormalities in blood clotting,[1] it is also used to monitor the treatment effects with heparin, a major anticoagulant. (Category 2)
- Antibody Tests (Category 3)
- Anti Thyroid Antibody (ATA)
- Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody (ACA)
- Anti Nuclear Antibody (ANA)
- Primary Immunodeficiency Panel (Category 5)
- Tests for infection – malarial smear, HIV, syphilis, hepatitis
The tests came out and I was positive for Category 1 and 2 due to my elevated KCT and negative tissue crossmatch.
Dra. Guinto referred me to an immunologist, Dra. Carol Gloria. She told that we need to “fix” my immune system first before we start getting pregnant.
I just hold on, with the help of my husband and my family & friends.
I cross my fingers now.
xx,
