A practical and case-based approach to thrombocytopenia in cardiology practice

Abstract

In cardiology practice, anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapies are essential for most patients. As of yet, there is no high quality evidence regarding these treatments in thrombocytopenic patients, which continues to be an issue. Thrombocytopenia is defined as a platelet count of 50x109/L, a half-dose of LMWH is recommended in patients with thrombocytopenia between 25 and 50x109/L. According to the current guidelines, avoiding antiplatelet and anticoagulant treatment should be restricted to patients with very severe thrombocytopenia (i.e., a platelet count <25x109/L), but new data and recommendations are needed.

Keywords

• anticoagulant
• antiplatelet; cardiology; heparin induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia; immune thrombocytopenic purpura; thrombocytopenia.