Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis syndrome: a case study

Heparin is a commonly used drug in critical care. In this case study we describe a relatively unknown and unforeseen event whereby the administration of heparin to prevent thrombus formation paradoxically resulted in clot formation. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis syndrome developed in a 36-year-old woman initially admitted to the coronary care unit with complaints of chest pain. We explore the theoretic basis of this syndrome as an immune-mediated response, along with the mechanisms leading to this syndrome as an immune-mediated response, along with the mechanisms leading to the clinical features and the difficulties associated with diagnosis treatment. In view of the frequent use of heparin and nurses' responsibility for recognizing the untoward effects of medications they administer, this case study is useful in gaining insight into a relatively unknown phenomenon.