Source
Department of Pharmaceutical Services, The University of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento 95817, USA. william.dager@ucdmc.ucdavis.edu
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To describe heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT or HIT-2), an immune-mediated adverse reaction to heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin. Available treatment options and considerations in developing a therapy approach are discussed.
DATA SOURCES:
A search of the National Library of Medicine (1992-June 2001) was done to identify pertinent literature. Additional references were reviewed from selected articles.
STUDY SELECTION:
Articles related to laboratory recognition and treatment options of HIT, including the use of agents in selected clinical conditions, were reviewed and included.
CONCLUSIONS:
HIT is a rare but potentially severe adverse reaction to heparin that was, until recently, poorly understood and had limited treatment options. Recent advances describing the recognition and clinical manifestations of immune-mediated HIT, including recently available antithrombotic treatment options, have dramatically changed outcomes for patients having this syndrome.