Case Report: Heparin resistance as the harbinger of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia in acute pulmonary embolism - Takeaways - MDSpire

Case Report: Heparin resistance as the harbinger of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia in acute pulmonary embolism

  • By

  • Na Yu

  • Fengqiang Wang

  • June 18, 2026

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) can complicate heparin therapy, leading to severe thrombotic events despite therapeutic dosing.

  • 2

    Unexplained heparin resistance, even before thrombocytopenia, may indicate HIT and necessitates immediate diagnostic evaluation.

  • 3

    In a case study, a 50-year-old man with acute pulmonary embolism exhibited heparin resistance and recurrent thrombosis prior to HIT diagnosis.

  • 4

    Switching from heparin to non-heparin anticoagulants, like argatroban, is crucial for managing suspected HIT to prevent life-threatening complications.

  • 5

    Follow-up revealed significant thrombus resolution and normalized cardiac function after appropriate management of HIT.

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