Acquired protein S and antithrombin III deficiency caused by nephrotic syndrome: an unusual cause of graft thrombosis

J Vasc Surg. 1997 Mar;25(3):576-80. doi: 10.1016/s0741-5214(97)70271-4.

Abstract

Thrombotic phenomena are well-recognized complications of nephrotic syndrome attributable to loss of intermediate-sized antithrombotic proteins in the urine, resulting in a hypercoaguable state. As such, nephrotic syndrome may be associated with a reduction in circulating antithrombin III and free protein S levels. Associated spontaneous thrombotic complications are generally venous in nature, with arterial thrombosis occurring less frequently. Hypercoagulability caused by acquired nephrotic syndrome has not generally been recognized as a cause of acute thrombosis of arterial bypass grafts. We report two patients who after having nephrotic syndrome sustained acute thrombosis of their arterial bypass grafts. Pathogenesis and management are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antithrombin III Deficiency*
  • Graft Occlusion, Vascular / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Leg / blood supply*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nephrotic Syndrome / blood
  • Nephrotic Syndrome / complications*
  • Protein S Deficiency / etiology*
  • Thrombosis / etiology*