Short Description

Heparin - Induced thrombocytopenia is an immune complex mediated disorder. It causes paradoxical disease, as in this anticoagulant is administered to prevent thrombosis while it leads to increased risk for venous and/or arterial thrombosis. HIT is suspected when patients treated with unfractioned heparin (UFH) or low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) show a decrease of platelet counts greater than 505 from the baseline, typically between day 5 & 10 from the initiation of the therapy. Cases of early-onset and delayed onset have been reported. Prompt diagnosis is important because heparin must be replaced with alternative anticoagulants in HIT patients. Two distinct types of HIT can occur: Non-immune & Immune-mediated. Type I Non-immune is characterized by a mild decrease in the platelet count and is not harmful. Type II HIT, immune-mediated is caused by the development of platelet-activating antibodies, mostly directed against Platelet factor when complexed with heparin. These IgG subtype antibodies are the primary cause for inducing both venous and arterial thrombosis.

PreTest Information

Overnight fasting is preferred. Duly filled Coagulation Requisition Form (Form 15) is mandatory.

Detail Description

HEPARIN INDUCED THROMBOCYTOPENIA (HIT) / ANTI PLATELET FACTOR 4-HEPARIN (PF4-H) IgG QUANTITATIVE Test

Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a severe and potentially life-threatening complication that can occur due to the use of heparin, a commonly used blood thinner medication. HIT can cause the formation of blood clots in the body, leading to serious consequences such as heart attack, stroke, or even death.

The Anti Platelet Factor 4-Heparin (PF4-H) IgG Quantitative Test is a diagnostic test used to measure the levels of antibodies in the blood that can lead to HIT. The test is performed by collecting a blood sample from the patient and analyzing it in a laboratory, where the levels of PF4-H IgG antibodies are measured.

Symptoms of HIT

The symptoms of HIT can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms of HIT include:

• Skin rash or red spots on the skin
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Swelling or pain in the limbs
• Low blood pressure
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

If you experience any of these symptoms while taking heparin, it is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Diagnosis of HIT

Diagnosis of HIT typically involves a blood test to check for the presence of PF4-H IgG antibodies. The Anti Platelet Factor 4-Heparin (PF4-H) IgG Quantitative Test is the most commonly used test for the diagnosis of HIT. In some cases, additional tests such as a platelet count or imaging tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of HIT

The treatment of HIT typically involves discontinuing the use of heparin and switching to an alternative anticoagulant medication. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for close monitoring and treatment, such as intravenous anticoagulant therapy or even surgery to remove blood clots.

Cost of Anti Platelet Factor 4-Heparin (PF4-H) IgG Quantitative Test

The cost of the Anti Platelet Factor 4-Heparin (PF4-H) IgG Quantitative Test in India is approximately INR 16,000. However, the cost may vary depending on the location and the laboratory where the test is performed.

Conclusion

Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a serious condition that can occur due to the use of heparin. The Anti Platelet Factor 4-Heparin (PF4-H) IgG Quantitative Test is a valuable diagnostic tool for the early detection of HIT, allowing for prompt treatment and management of the condition. If you experience any symptoms of HIT while taking heparin, it is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

At DNA Labs India, we offer the Anti Platelet Factor 4-Heparin (PF4-H) IgG Quantitative Test, along with a range of other diagnostic tests to support the healthcare needs of our patients. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

Heparin - Induced thrombocytopenia is an immune complex mediated disorder. It causes paradoxical disease, as in this anticoagulant is administered to prevent thrombosis while it leads to increased risk for venous and/or arterial thrombosis. HIT is suspected when patients treated with unfractioned heparin (UFH) or low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) show a decrease of platelet counts greater than 505 from the baseline, typically between day 5 & 10 from the initiation of the therapy. Cases of early-onset and delayed onset have been reported. Prompt diagnosis is important because heparin must be replaced with alternative anticoagulants in HIT patients. Two distinct types of HIT can occur: Non-immune & Immune-mediated. Type I Non-immune is characterized by a mild decrease in the platelet count and is not harmful. Type II HIT, immune-mediated is caused by the development of platelet-activating antibodies, mostly directed against Platelet factor when complexed with heparin. These IgG subtype antibodies are the primary cause for inducing both venous and arterial thrombosis.