Heparin is commonly used to prevent thrombosis in patients undergoing surgery and in nonambulatory patients in critical care units. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a rare and serious complication associated with the use of heparin.1–,3 HIT can be divided into 2 clinically separate types (Table 1). Type I (HIT-I) occurs in 10% to 20% of patients receiving heparin and typically is manifested by a mild reduction in the platelet count 1 to 4 days after initiation of heparin therapy. The underlying cause of HIT-I remains unknown but is believed to involve a direct reaction of heparin with platelets that leads to platelet clumping.1,3 HIT-I is benign and usually resolves without further sequelae after heparin therapy is discontinued.1,3 Type II (HIT-II) occurs in 1% to 3% of patients after receiving heparin for 5 to 14 days.1–,3 HIT-II is an immune-mediated reaction...

You do not currently have access to this content.