Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia with thrombotic complications during prophylactic treatment with low-molecular-weight heparin

Blood Coagul Fibrinolysis. 1996 Nov;7(8):786-8. doi: 10.1097/00001721-199611000-00007.

Abstract

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is very uncommon with low-molecular-weight heparin, especially when given for prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism. In two of the four published cases, with thrombotic complications, thrombocytopenia may have been related to cross-reactivity between unfractionated heparin and low-molecular-weight heparin. We report one patient who received low-molecular-weight heparin for prophylaxis against venous thromboembolism without any previous injection of unfractionated heparin, and experienced thrombocytopenia with thrombotic complications. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia was confirmed by several laboratory assays. This observation emphasizes the need for platelet count monitoring during low-molecular-weight heparin therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Female
  • Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight / adverse effects*
  • Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Platelet Count
  • Postoperative Complications / prevention & control*
  • Thrombocytopenia / chemically induced*
  • Thrombosis / chemically induced*

Substances

  • Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight