[Thrombocytopenia induced by heparin. Apropos of 10 cases]

The authors report ten observations of thrombocytopenia induced by heparin complicated with two arterial thrombosis and four deep venous thrombosis. Two deaths and two amputations are to mention. This retrospective study leads to a review of literature: this iatrogenic disease, which frequency is variously estimated, has no relation with the dose and the mode of administration of Heparin. It's mechanism might be immuno-allergic. It's diagnosis depends mainly on the repetition of platelet numerations at the outset period of treatment, and on the rapid and lasting climbing of platelet countings when heparin is stopped. This uncommon and unforeseeable complication indicates to stop Heparin and to start K antivitamin's if necessary.