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Updated: Jun 20, 2026
11:17
Rapid Point-of-Care Assay of Enoxaparin Anticoagulant Efficacy in Whole Blood
Published on: October 12, 2012
Bleeding the system: a case of feigned enoxaparin overdose
1St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, 222 W. Thomas Rd., Suite 110A, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA. jason.caplan@chw.edu
Psychosomatics
|August 19, 2009
Summary
This case report highlights feigned low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) overdose, a diagnostic possibility for practitioners. Recognizing malingering is crucial for appropriate patient management and resource allocation.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs) are widely used anticoagulants due to their safety and ease of administration.
- Overdoses of LMWHs can be fatal, necessitating prompt and accurate diagnosis and management.
- Lack of familiarity with LMWH pharmacology can impede effective care in overdose situations.
Observation:
- A case report details a 49-year-old homeless male presenting with a reported deliberate overdose of injectable LMWH.
- The patient's presentation was unusual, and prior medical history and work-up were reviewed.
- The case involved a deliberate self-administration of LMWH.
Findings:
- The patient was ultimately diagnosed with malingering based on his presentation and history.
- Feigned LMWH overdose presents a diagnostic challenge, mimicking a genuine medical emergency.
- The diagnosis of malingering was supported by unusual presentation and documented history.
Implications:
- Feigned LMWH overdose is a plausible scenario for malingering, exploiting the perceived severity of the condition.
- Such cases can lead to unnecessary hospitalizations and resource utilization.
- Practitioners should be aware of malingering as a differential diagnosis in suspected LMWH overdose cases.
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