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Fondaparinux in heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
Andreas Gevaert1, Hilde Smets, Roeland Vercauteren
1Dept. of Internal Medicine, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is a potentiallylife-threatening complication of heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin administration. We describe the case of a patient with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia complicated by pulmonary embolism, successfully treated with fondaparinux, a factor Xa inhibitor. We also review the literature regarding the use of this anticoagulant in heparin-induced thrombocytopenia complicated by thrombosis. Few treatment options are available in Belgium, and there is little evidence regarding newer anticoagulants.
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is a potentiallylife-threatening complication of heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin administration. We describe the case of a patient with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia complicated by pulmonary embolism, successfully treated with fondaparinux, a factor Xa inhibitor. We also review the literature regarding the use of this anticoagulant in heparin-induced thrombocytopenia complicated by thrombosis. Few treatment options are available in Belgium, and there is little evidence regarding newer anticoagulants.
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