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Updated: Jul 26, 2026
11:17
Rapid Point-of-Care Assay of Enoxaparin Anticoagulant Efficacy in Whole Blood
Published on: October 12, 2012
Heparin-induced hepatotoxicity.
K A AL-Mekhaizeem1, A H Sherker
1Division of Gastroenterology, Sir Mortimer B Davis Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
Summary
Heparin can cause liver injury (hepatotoxicity), which is often missed in clinical practice. This report highlights rapid liver enzyme elevations after heparin initiation, suggesting a need for increased awareness.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Hepatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Heparin-induced hepatotoxicity is a known, albeit rarely diagnosed, clinical complication.
- Elevated liver enzymes are a key indicator of potential drug-induced liver injury.
Observation:
- Two patient cases demonstrated elevated aminotransferase levels following heparin administration.
- One patient exhibited enzyme elevations within 8 hours of heparin treatment, a notably rapid onset.
Findings:
- The rapid onset of liver enzyme elevation in one case is unprecedented in existing literature.
- These findings underscore the potential for acute hepatic response to heparin therapy.
Implications:
- Increased clinical vigilance for heparin-induced hepatotoxicity is warranted, especially with rapid enzyme changes.
- This biochemical observation may prompt further investigation into the mechanisms of heparin-induced liver injury.
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