Case studies of HIT in cardiovascular medicine.
We present three clinical cases that illustrate some of the key features of the diagnosis and management of immune-mediated heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). The importance of having a high clinical suspicion for HIT in the appropriate clinical setting is emphasized. Early therapeutic decisions should be based on a clinical diagnosis, with laboratory tests serving as confirmation. Low-molecular-weight and unfractionated heparins are to be strictly avoided in patients with HIT. Identification bracelets or necklaces may be useful to reduce inappropriate administration of these agents to patients with HIT presenting with acute coronary syndromes.
Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157, USA.
Kyle J
KJ
Smith
Jason T
JT
Call
David C
DC
Sane
D000368:Aged; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000009:adverse effects; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis; D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques; D005260:Female; D006493:Heparin / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010976:Platelet Count; D013921:Thrombocytopenia / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis
D000925:Anticoagulants; D006493:Heparin