Predictors of damage accrual and its impact on health-related quality of life of thrombotic antiphospholipid syndrome: Independent validation of the damage index for antiphospholipid syndrome (DIAPS).

Objectives: We aim to independently assess the validity of the damage index for antiphospholipid syndrome (DIAPS) in thrombotic antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) patients by exploring the prevalence and risk factors of organ damage and evaluating its impact on health-related quality of life (HR-QoL).

Methods: Cross-sectional study including all thrombotic APS patients (Sydney criteria) attending a Portuguese tertiary centre. Damage was assessed using the DIAPS, and HR-QoL using the 3- and 5-level EuroQol HR-QoL (EQ-D5-3L and 5L), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) applied via a phone questionnaire.

Platelet Count Drop After Rapid Deployment Aortic Valve Implantation.

Background: A transient postoperative drop in platelet count is an expected finding after aortic valve replacement using extracorporeal circulation. The implantation of the Perceval valve has been associated with a more intense drop of platelet count compared to other bio-prostheses. This study analyses and compares the platelets progression associated with the Perceval and Intuity valves.