Low-molecular-weight heparin - an opportunity for home treatment of venous thrombosis

Article Abstract:

Low-molecular-weight heparin offers several advantages over standard heparin treatment for venous clots, including the possibility of out-patient treatment. When the heparin molecule is broken into smaller fragments, the result is more predictable anti-clotting properties, less risk of hemorrhage, more circulating drug because it binds less readily to cells lining blood vessels and other circulating cells, and a longer duration of effect for each dose. This means that low-molecular-weight heparin demands neither intravenous administration nor close laboratory follow-up. It can be injected twice daily. Studies first showed that low-molecular-weight heparin could be used as preventative treatment for patients at risk of forming blood clots. More recent studies have concluded that low-molecular-weight heparin can be used to treat deep-vein clots in selected patients at home. It remains to be seen whether home treatment will prove cost effective, feasible, or improve the patient's quality of life.

Thrombosis, Deep vein, Deep vein thrombosis, Heparin

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Venous thrombosis as a chronic disease

Article Abstract:

Venous thromboembolism may be a chronic disease that requires life-long treatment with anticoagulant drugs. This condition is caused by blood clots that form in the legs and may travel to other parts of the body. One area affected is the lungs, and pulmonary embolism can be fatal. Consequently, when patients have one episode of venous thromboembolism, they are usually treated with anticoagulants for several months. A 1999 study found that the risk of recurring venous thromboembolism was much less in patients who were treated for longer periods. Many of these patients may have permanent blood clotting abnormalities that require life-long treatment.

Blood clotting disorders, Blood coagulation disorders, Thromboembolism

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Thrombocytosis

Article Abstract:

Thrombocytosis is an incidental laboratory abnormality when the complete blood count is obtained for some unrelated reason. The mechanisms, major causes and diagnosis of thrombocytosis are discussed.

Science & research, Research, Diagnosis, Causes of, Thrombocytosis, Blood cell count, Thrombocythemia

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