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Published on: September 9, 2012
[Hereditary resistance to vitamin K antagonists. Apropos of a case]
F Paganelli1, J Conard, R Gelisse
1Service de cardiologie, centre hospitalier universitaire Marseille-Nord.
Abstract:
Resistance to vitamin K antagonists is a rare phenomenon. In general, it is the result of poor patient compliance, malabsorption, a diet rich in vitamin K, or the use of enzyme inducers. Occasionally, the diagnosis of resistance is made when plasma levels are high. The authors report a case of hereditary resistance to vitamin K antagonists in a 43 year old man admitted for atrial fibrillation. The precise prevalence of this anomaly is unknown. However, the existence should be known to clinicians who often use this important family of drugs.
Insights
Hereditary resistance to vitamin K antagonists is a rare condition. This case highlights the importance of considering genetic factors when patients do not respond to these anticoagulant drugs.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Genetics
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Vitamin K antagonists are crucial anticoagulants.
- Resistance is typically acquired due to non-adherence, malabsorption, diet, or enzyme induction.
- Rarely, resistance can be hereditary.
Observation:
- A 43-year-old male patient with atrial fibrillation presented with resistance to vitamin K antagonists.
- Plasma levels of the drug were high despite administration, suggesting poor drug efficacy.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited hereditary resistance to vitamin K antagonists.
- This genetic anomaly impacts drug response and management.
Implications:
- Clinicians must be aware of hereditary vitamin K antagonist resistance.
- Consideration of genetic factors is vital for effective anticoagulation therapy.
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