Is bivalirudin an option for treating heparin-induced thrombocytopenia in patients not undergoing a percutaneous coronary intervention?
Introduction Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a serious and potentially fatal immune-mediated thrombogenic complication that is associated with both unfractionated heparin (UFH) and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH).1 Early recognition and treatment are essential in preventing morbidity (thrombosis, limb loss) and mortality. Direct thrombin inhibitors such as lepirudin and argatroban are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) labeled for the management of HIT; however, both agents have potential drawbacks with their use. Argatroban requires a dosage adjustment in hepatic insufficiency and increases the International Normalized Ratio (INR) when used with warfarin. The dose of lepirudin should be adjusted in renal insufficiency, and it may precipitate antibody formation. Bivalirudin is FDA-labeled for anticoagulation during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), for anticoagulation during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with provisional use of a glycoprote
Related Questions
- Is bivalirudin an option for treating heparin-induced thrombocytopenia in patients not undergoing a percutaneous coronary intervention?
- when is it the time for medical treatment, percutaneous coronary intervention or aortocoronary bypass surgery?
- Is informed consent in cardiac surgery and percutaneous coronary intervention achievable?
