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Updated: Sep 7, 2025
11:17
Rapid Point-of-Care Assay of Enoxaparin Anticoagulant Efficacy in Whole Blood
Published on: October 12, 2012
13.9K
[Hyperkalemia due to low-molecular-weight heparin]
Wendy van der Heiden1, J J E Bart Koopman1, Natasha M Appelman-Dijkstra2
1LUMC, Leiden. Afd. Interne Geneeskunde.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|June 23, 2022
Summary
Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) can cause hyperkalemia, a condition often linked to iatrogenic causes. Physicians should consider LMWH, like nadroparin, when evaluating patients with unexplained high potassium levels.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pharmacology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Hyperkalemia is frequently iatrogenic, necessitating a thorough review of patient prescriptions.
- Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) is not commonly recognized as a cause of hyperkalemia.
Observation:
- A patient with pancreatitis developed severe hyperkalemia, with investigations suggesting hypoaldosteronism.
- Nadroparin, an LMWH, was prescribed for venous thrombosis and identified as the potential cause of hyperkalemia.
Findings:
- Biochemical testing confirmed hypoaldosteronism.
- A rechallenge with nadroparin led to a rapid increase in serum potassium, confirming the drug's role.
Implications:
- Hypoaldosteronism should be considered in patients using LMWH who develop hyperkalemia.
- Monitoring potassium levels is advisable for patients on LMWH, especially those with other hyperkalemia risk factors.
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