Systolic heart failure: a prothrombotic state

Semin Thromb Hemost. 2009 Jul;35(5):497-504. doi: 10.1055/s-0029-1234145. Epub 2009 Sep 8.

Abstract

Systolic heart failure is a common syndrome whose incidence is expected to increase. Several treatment modalities, such as beta-blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, improve survival. Whether antithrombotic treatment is effective remains to be elucidated, although observations suggest a prothrombotic state in heart failure. This article focuses on this prothrombotic state and discusses the risk of thromboembolic events, pathophysiological mechanisms, and the potential role of anticoagulant treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists
  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use*
  • Aspirin / therapeutic use
  • Fibrinolytic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Heart Failure, Systolic / complications
  • Heart Failure, Systolic / drug therapy
  • Heart Failure, Systolic / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Myocardial Infarction / etiology
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Prognosis
  • Pulmonary Embolism / etiology
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Renin-Angiotensin System / drug effects
  • Thromboembolism / etiology
  • Warfarin / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists
  • Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists
  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Anticoagulants
  • Fibrinolytic Agents
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors
  • Warfarin
  • Aspirin