Hemoperitoneum Due to Warfarin Toxicity Presenting as Intestinal Obstruction

J Coll Physicians Surg Pak. 2015 Oct:25 Suppl 2:S93-4. doi: 10.2015/JCPSP.S93S94.

Abstract

The patients on anticoagulation therapy especially warfarin can develop gastrointestinal bleed, gum bleeding, hematuria or ecchymosis. Rarely do such patients present with hemoperitoneum producing symptoms. Hemoperitoneum can produce shock, cause compression symptoms or may even be fatal. Such patients can be managed conservatively or may need surgical exploration for ongoing bleeding or decompression. We had a patient taking warfarin who presented with hemoperitoneum producing intestinal symptoms. The patient was managed conservatively with fluid and blood product replacement and stopping warfarin. The benefits of thromboprophylaxis and the risks of bleeding should be carefully evaluated and the dose of warfarin carefully adjusted.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anticoagulants / adverse effects*
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Hemoperitoneum / chemically induced*
  • Humans
  • International Normalized Ratio
  • Intestinal Obstruction / etiology*
  • Male
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Warfarin / adverse effects*
  • Warfarin / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Warfarin