Key facts about HIT
HIT is a clinicopathologic disorder. Diagnosis is based on classical clinical signs and symptoms confirmed by demonstrating the presence of HIT antibodies by sensitive and specific laboratory tests3.
Suspect HIT in any patient who develops a 30-50% reduction of platelet count whilst on heparin2.
To facilitate the diagnosis of HIT:
- establish a baseline level and check platelet count at least every 48 hours
- be aware of patient history – exposure to heparin and heparin related complications
- A patient may present with thrombocytopenia alone or thrombocytopenia and associated thrombosis in arteries and/or veins3.
- An acute systemic reaction may also occur, which could range from pain at the site of injection to cardiac arrest3.
Contact information
Organon Laboratories Ltd
Cambridge Science Park
Milton Road
Cambridge
CB4 0FL
Telephone 01223 432700
Fax 01223 424368
(www.organon.co.uk)
Cambridge Science Park
Milton Road
Cambridge
CB4 0FL
Telephone 01223 432700
Fax 01223 424368
(www.organon.co.uk)
© 2008 Organon Laboratories. All rights reserved. Date of prep. November 2008. Item code: 09847G