Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia: research and clinical updates

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) remains an important diagnosis to consider in hospitalized patients developing thrombocytopenia. HIT is an immune-mediated prothrombotic disorder caused by antibodies to platelet factor 4 (PF4) and heparin. Recent basic scientific studies have advanced our understanding of disease pathogenesis through studies of the PF4/heparin structure, immune mechanisms, and cellular basis of thrombosis. Clinical advances have also occurred in areas of HIT prevention, description of disease variants, and diagnostic strategies. Emerging anticoagulants with the potential to change HIT treatment are evolving, although with limited data. This review will provide a current perspective on HIT pathogenesis, disease features, diagnostic strategies, and role of emerging therapies for the management of HIT.