Thrombocytopenia Probably Heparin-Induced in Women with Tumor of the Heart and Pulmonary Embolism

43 years old women with tumor of the right ventricle was admitted to ICU due to pulmonary embolism and suspicion for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia was successfully treated with Arixtra and the patient was qualified for the cardio surgery intervention. Heparin is widely used in treatment and prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism and other diseases. One of the most important adverse effect of treatment with heparin is heparin-inducted thrombocytopenia (HIT), which is one of the most frequent drug-induced, immune-mediated type ofthrombocytopenia. Ifit is unrecognized is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. According to our knowledge this is first report of Arixtra usage in patient with suspicion of HIT in Poland.