Alveolar hemorrhage associated with platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor inhibitors

Rasih Atilla Ener1, Nichole Bruno, Daniel Dadourian

  • 1Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.

Platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor inhibitors have been shown to improve outcomes in percutaneous coronary interventions. Their use with multiple anticoagulants has been associated with increased bleeding complications. Among these, alveolar hemorrhage is a rare and potentially fatal complication. Six patients with this complication were identified over a four-year period. Patient characteristics, possible risk factors, pathophysiology, prevention and potential treatment options are discussed.

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