Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia leading to stroke, lower extremity arterial occlusive disease, and skin necrosis: A case report

• Published in: Platelets (Edinburgh) Vol. 25; no. 2; pp. 129 - 131
• Main Authors: Nazliel, B., Batur Caglayan, H.Z., Yildirim Capraz, I., Irkec, C., Yagci, M., Gesoglu, T.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Informa UK Ltd 01-01-2014
• Subjects: Aged; Arterial Occlusive Diseases - etiology; Arterial Occlusive Diseases - surgery; Embolectomy; Female; Heparin - adverse effects; Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight - adverse effects; Humans; Lower Extremity - blood supply; Lower Extremity - pathology; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Necrosis; Stroke - diagnosis; Stroke - etiology; Thrombocytopenia - chemically induced; Thrombocytopenia - complications; Treatment Outcome
• ISSN: 0953-7104; 1369-1635
• DOI: 10.3109/09537104.2013.779655

Abstract
Enoxaparin sodium is a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) used to treat and prevent deep venous thrombosis (DVT). The common complications related to the use of heparin are bleeding, allergic reaction, and osteoporosis. A less common complications are thrombocytopenia and thromboembolism that may not be generally recognized. We present a case of low molecular weight (LMW) heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) causing stroke, lower extremity arterial occlusion, and skin necrosis. Monitoring the platelet count is essential for early diagnosis of HIT. All patients who undergo heparinization should have a baseline platelet count done before the regimen is started and should be monitored closely especially during the first weeks of treatment.