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Warfarin necrosis
J T McKnight1, A J Maxwell, R L Anderson
1Department of Family Medicine, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa.
Archives of Family Medicine
|September 1, 1992
Summary
Warfarin-induced skin necrosis is a rare but serious complication. Family physicians must recognize its presentation, pathogenesis, and treatment to manage this adverse event effectively.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
- Pathology
Background:
- Warfarin is a widely used anticoagulant.
- Skin and subcutaneous tissue necrosis is a rare but severe adverse effect of warfarin therapy.
- Increased warfarin use necessitates physician awareness of this complication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the history and clinical presentation of warfarin-induced skin necrosis.
- To describe the histologic findings and discuss the pathogenesis.
- To outline treatment options based on current literature.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of warfarin-induced skin necrosis.
- Analysis of clinical presentation and histologic findings.
- Synthesis of treatment strategies.
Main Results:
- Warfarin-induced skin necrosis is characterized by specific clinical and histologic features.
- The pathogenesis involves a paradoxical hypercoagulable state.
- Treatment strategies vary but aim to manage the necrotic lesions and discontinue warfarin.
Conclusions:
- Warfarin-induced skin necrosis, though rare, requires prompt recognition and management.
- Understanding its pathogenesis is crucial for effective treatment.
- Physicians should be vigilant for this complication in patients on warfarin therapy.