Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia--recognition and treatment

Heparin, an important agent for the prophylaxis and treatment of venous and arterial thromboembolism, also can cause heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). This medication-induced immune-mediated syndrome is characterized by thrombocytopenia and life- or limb-threatening thrombotic events. The initial presentation of HIT is a decrease in platelet count with or without thrombosis. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia frequently is overlooked in hospital settings, and it must be distinguished from other causes of thrombocytopenia. New therapies include the use of direct thrombin inhibitors argatroban and hirudin.