Cardiology MCQ: Heparin induced thrombocytopenia syndrome – HIT / HITS

Wrong about heparin induced thrombocytopenia syndrome (HITS): a) HIT 1 is more dangerous than HIT 2 b) HIT 1 is non-immune mediated c) HIT 2 is associated with thrombosis d) HIT 2 is also known as HITTS (Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis Syndrome) Correct answer: a) HIT 1 is more dangerous than HIT 2 HIT 1 is self limited and unlikely to worsen with continued usage of Heparin. Heparin induced thrombocytopenia syndrome (HIT / HITS) is of two types – HIT I and HIT II (HIT 1 and 2). HIT 1 is a self limiting disease and a non-immune mediated response to heparin which occurs within 1 – 4 days of exposure to heparin. It is not associated with thrombosis and is unlikely to worsen with continued use of heparin. HIT 1 is also known as HITS. HIT 2 or HITTS (Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis Syndrome) is a more dangerous form in which IgG antibodies against heparin-platelet factor 4 complex are formed. It occurs within 5 to 14 days of exposure to heparin and is associated with thrombotic events. In those who have been previously exposed to heparin, the onset is earlier and can occur within hours. Direct thrombin inhibitors like bivalirudin is the drug of choice in HITTS / HIT 2 for management of thrombosis. Though the chance of developing HITTS with low molecular weight heparin is lower than that with conventional heparin, low molecular weight heparin cannot be used after the onset of HITTS. The post Cardiology MCQ: Heparin induced thrombocytopenia syndr...
Source: Cardiophile MD - Category: Cardiology Authors: Tags: Cardiology MCQ DM / DNB Cardiology Entrance Source Type: blogs