Catastrophic antiphospholipid antibody syndrome as a first manifestation of primary antiphospholipid antibody syndrome in a middle-aged man

Catastrophic antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (CAPS) is a severe form of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) that sometimes represents the first manifestation of the later syndrome. The clinical manifestations of CAPS are relatively non-specific. Hence, the diagnosis may be delayed, resulting in high mortality. We herein present a case of a 40-year-old male who presented with rapid-onset renal failure, gangrene of finger and toe tips and hematological abnormalities with no underlying secondary cause for this complication. The symptoms were precipitated by febrile illness of short duration. A provisional diagnosis of CAPS was made and treatment instituted. With timely diagnosis and intervention, both the life of the patient and kidney function were salvaged. A high index of suspicion for CAPS is important as early treatment can be lifesaving.