Heparin induced thrombocytopenia: Diagnosis and contemporary antithrombin management

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) may be complicated by severe thrombo tic complications and death. Currently no specific laboratory test is avail able to make the diagnosis. When HIT is clinically suspected, heparin shoul d be discontinued immediately. While no specific therapy for HIT exists, th ere is increasing evidence that acute antithrombin therapy may significantl y reduce morbidity and mortality. Among several agents, the direct antithro mbins, such as r-hirudin and argatroban, look the most promising for acute treatment.