Acute stent thrombosis associated with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and abciximab-induced profound thrombocytopenia

Abstract

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a wellknown complication after exposure to heparin products. Profound thrombocytopenia has also been reported with the use of abciximab, a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor antagonist, which is used during percutaneous coronary intervention. Acute stent thrombosis is a rare but serious complication of HIT. We report an unusual case of acute stent thrombosis with concomitant heparin- and abciximab-induced profound thrombocytopenia and discuss the subsequent treatment strategies. Prompt identification and management of this disorder is critically important to avoid devastating complications.