Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia: a case report and literature overview.

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an immunologically-mediated complication, which usually follows heparin exposition, less frequently exposition to other drugs or even occurs spontaneously. The type of heparin, its dose and mode of application as well as the exposition time, major trauma or operation, and obesity represent the main risk factors for HIT. The probability of HIT correlates with so-called 4T-score. A confirmatory laboratory diagnostic should be exclusively reserved for patients with a medium to a high probability of HIT development (more than 3 points in 4T-score). The screening method is based on serological detection of antibodies against heparin-platelet factor-4 complexes; confirmation tests aim to identify the activation of platelets. The treatment of HIT requires an immediate interruption of heparin application and rigorous antithrombotic treatment with an alternative agent. Herein authors describe a clinical case of HIT manifested as an extreme urticarial reaction in the location of nadroparin application as well as thrombosis of deep subcutaneous veins in a polymorbid obese patient with an extensive and infected burn. Due to timely diagnosis and fondaparinux treatment, no more severe thrombotic events occurred in this patient.

[New - direct oral anticoagulants: actual review]. / Nová - prímá perorální antikoagulancia: aktuální prehled.

In recent years the options of anticoagulant/antithrombotic therapy have extended with new - direct oral anticoagulants, comprising direct thrombin inhibitors (dabigatran etexilate) and direct factor Xa inhibitors (rivaroxaban, apixaban). These agents represent another progress towards "the ideal antithrombotic drug", and thus towards a safe and effective antithrombotic therapy. The following article provides actual review and recommendations for clinical practice, including laboratory assessment and management of emergency situations. The approval of idarucizumab as a specific antidote for dabigatran has marked an important step in safety of this treatment.Key words: apixaban - dabigatran - DOAC - NOAC - rivaroxaban.