Heparin-induced Thrombocytopenia: A known rare complication of heparin therapy

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a rare clinico-pathological abnormality. It is characterized by the development of thrombocytopenia, resulting from heparin administration, which leads to a decrease in platelet count by 50%, or to less than 1 0 0 x 1 0 3 M within 5 to 14 days. HIT causes increased morbidity and mortality, thus it is of vital importance that acute care physicians, surgeons and intensivist should be aware of this clinical entity. We report a case of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and review of its management, including alternatives to heparin therapy.