Spontaneous sublingual hematoma secondary to warfarin therapy—A rare complication

Abstract

Abstract Warfarin is the most commonly prescribed oral anticoagulant in Nepal. It is commonly used for chronic anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation, venous thromboembolism, and artificial heart valves. The major side effect of warfarin is bleeding. Though extremely rare, a sublingual hematoma can lead to life‐threatening complications as it can cause severe airway obstruction. We present a case of a 55‐year‐old female patient who had sublingual hematoma secondary to the use of Warfarin therapy. In addition to the discontinuation of warfarin, she was managed conservatively without any surgical intervention. Early diagnosis, timely discontinuation of the drug, and application of appropriate medical treatment are of utmost importance for reducing morbidity and mortality due to bleeding and airway compromise.

Keywords

• anticoagulant
• Nepal
• sublingual hematoma
• warfarin