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Hirudin-based anticoagulant strategies for patients with suspected heparin-induced thrombocytopenia undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions and bypass grafting

Publication ,  Journal Article
Becker, RC
Published in: Journal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis
2000

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an immune-mediated adverse drug reaction that is associated with thrombotic events of the venous and arterial circulatory systems stemming from an intense and well-characterized prothrombotic triad of platelet activation, coagulation cascade stimulation and vascular endothelial cell injury. Although heparin (or other sulfated mucopolysaccharide compound) cessation represents a vital first step in management, patients remain susceptible to life-threatening thrombosis for up to several weeks, providing a strong rationale for a 'proactive approach' to care that includes prompt initiation of an alternative anticoagulant strategy throughout the high-risk period. The importance of alternative options for anticoagulation is most evident in clinical situations wherein treatment is a recognized standard of care and prerequisite for an optimal outcome. The following review highlights the use of recombinant hirudin (lepirudin) among patients with suspected HIT requiring precutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) and coronary arterial bypass grafting.

Duke Scholars

Published In

Journal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis

ISSN

0929-5305

Publication Date

2000

Volume

10

Issue

SUPPL. 1

Start / End Page

S59 / S68

Related Subject Headings

  • Cardiovascular System & Hematology
  • 1103 Clinical Sciences
 
Journal cover image

Published In

Journal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis

ISSN

0929-5305

Publication Date

2000

Volume

10

Issue

SUPPL. 1

Start / End Page

S59 / S68

Related Subject Headings

  • Cardiovascular System & Hematology
  • 1103 Clinical Sciences