Heparin-induced skin necrosis and low molecular weight heparins.
Heparin-induced skin necrosis is a rare but potentially devastating side-effect of low molecular weight heparins. These agents are widely used in surgical practice and doctors prescribing them should be aware of the condition, as failure to recognise it may increase morbidity. An unusually severe case is presented with a review of the literature.
Drew
P J
PJ
Welsh Centre for Plastic Surgery and Burns, Morriston Hospital, Swansea, UK. p.drew@virgin.net
Smith
M J
MJ
Milling
M A
MA
D000368:Aged; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003875:Drug Eruptions / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006495:Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D009336:Necrosis; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology*
D000925:Anticoagulants; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents; D006495:Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight