Developing an algorithm for treating heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.
Research article published in Clinical advances in hematology & oncology : H&O (2004)
Abstract
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a serious and common complication of heparin therapy that can lead to significant losses of life and limb. It is often under-recognized and, therefore, goes untreated until thrombosis develops. This article is meant to provide specific recommendations for treating patients with immune-mediated HIT, whether or not it is associated with thrombosis. These recommendations are based on our clinical experience treating patients with HIT and our evaluation of the published data on the efficacy and safety of lepirudin and argatroban, the 2 drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating HIT. Based on these criteria, we consider lepirudin the treatment of choice in all patients with HIT except those with severe or deteriorating renal function.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Resumen
Developing an algorithm for treating heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
Esta revisión describe un algoritmo para el manejo de la trombocitopenia inducida por heparina (TIH), centrándose en el uso clínico de anticoagulantes alternativos aprobados por la FDA. Específicamente destaca la lepirudina —una forma recombinante de la hirudina originalmente derivada de la sanguijuela medicinal— como el tratamiento de elección para la mayoría de los pacientes con TIH. Esto aporta un contexto valioso para la traslación clínica de una proteína derivada de la sanguijuela a un producto farmacéutico de uso habitual. No obstante, el estudio no involucra sanguijuelas vivas ni hirudoterapia natural; su relevancia se limita estrictamente a la aplicación farmacéutica de una molécula específica derivada de la sanguijuela.
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Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 28, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: June 18, 2026