Heparin induced thrombocytopenia: An illustrated review

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an immune-mediated adverse drug effect from unfractionated or low-molecular weight heparin that results in and potentially catastrophic thrombosis. HIT occurs due to the development of platelet-activating antibodies against multimolecular complexes platelet factor 4 (PF4) heparin. Given frequency use among hospitalized patients, calculation 4Ts Score recommended identify patients at increased likelihood direct further evaluation. In with intermediate high probability Score, immunoassay functional assay are confirm refute diagnosis HIT. Heparin avoidance initiation non-heparin anticoagulation mainstays acute management. this illustrated review, we provide visual summaries management HIT, highlighting connections between pathophysiology clinical care as well summarizing efforts quality improvement field. We emphasize common pitfalls pearls encourage evidence-based care. include graphical representation unique challenges cardiopulmonary bypass also delineate autoimmune its subtypes.