Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia – Diagnostic Principles and Testing Methods
Terence Litavec, MLT | November 29, 2018 |
Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an unintended, life-threatening consequence of heparin administration. It is an autoimmune disorder that occurs in up to 8% of patients receiving heparin and heparin derivatives. The formation of HIT antibodies creates a paradoxical situation in which patients receiving a known anticoagulant medication experience thrombotic episodes in conjunction with a sudden drop in platelet count. This presentation will outline the clinical symptoms and underlying mechanisms responsible for the onset of this very serious clinical conundrum.