Low-molecular-weight heparin-induced skin necrosis: about 2 cases

Acta Clin Belg. 2009 May-Jun;64(3):228-30. doi: 10.1179/acb.2009.040.

Abstract

Heparin-induced skin necrosis is an infrequent condition, complicating unfractionated heparin and more rarely low-molecular-weight heparin administration. Like heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, it is associated with the presence of anti-PF4 antibodies. After reporting 2 observations, we briefly review the clinical features and management of this condition. Early recognition is of the utmost importance since heparin-induced skin necrosis can be associated with HIT, a potentially lethal disorder.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anticoagulants / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Necrosis / chemically induced
  • Necrosis / pathology
  • Necrosis / therapy
  • Skin / drug effects*
  • Skin / pathology*

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight