Fatal Pulmonary Embolism Secondary to Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia in Hemodialysis: A Case Study

Heparin and low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) are first-line anticoagulants in hemodialysis but may trigger heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a severe immune-mediated complication. Despite its clinical significance, HIT is often misdiagnosed early, increasing thromboembolic risks and mortality.

We present a case of a 61-year-old male patient who developed HIT during initial hemodialysis. The patient exhibited recurrent catheter thrombosis, intermuscular venous thrombosis in the lower extremities, and progressive thrombocytopenia following LMWH administration during dialysis. The diagnosis was confirmed by IgG-specific anti-PF4/heparin antibody testing. Shortly after the last dialysis session, the patient developed acute dyspnea and chest pain. Computed tomography angiography of the chest revealed pulmonary embolism. Despite aggressive intervention, the patient's condition deteriorated rapidly, with platelet counts dropping to 5 × 10⁹/L, culminating in a fatal outcome.

The combination of dialysis catheter thrombosis and declining platelet counts constitutes an essential early diagnostic clue for HIT in hemodialysis patients, the recognition of which could prevent fatal thromboembolic complications.