[Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia type II (HIT II) : A medical-economic view]

Abstract

Background: In the context of inpatient and increasingly ambulatory thrombosis prophylaxis, heparins have been recognised as standard therapy for decades. In addition to the therapeutic benefit, therapy with heparins also entails the risk of undesirable side effects, such as bleeding and thrombocytopenia. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT II) is deemed a serious side effect.

Aim: In the following work, HIT II is subjected to a medico-economic consideration (treatment, pharmaceuticals, subsequent costs due to possible complications) and, with regard to a possible HIT II prophylaxis, aspects of increasingly respected patient safety are also considered.

Methods: In the context of a literature search the active ingredients argatroban and danaparoid, which are approved for HIT II treatment, were evaluated.

Results: HIT II - especially in combination with thromboembolic complications - represents a medical-economic burden for the hospital. Although this is only an orientation guide, it shows that HIT II syndrome is not adequately cost-covered by the G‑DRG system. An early thrombosis prophylaxis with argatroban/danaparoid for HIT II risk patients should therefore be taken into account for medical-related as well as patient safety-relevant aspects. According to experience, the pharmaceutical supply for these medically needed products (anticoagulants) should be ensured for reasons of patient safety.

Conclusion: The risk of an immunological response to heparin therapy is known. Within the context of increased patient safety, thrombosis prophylaxis should be issued with a risk-adjusted prophylaxis.

Keywords: Anticoagulants; Heparin; Inpatients; Patient safety; Thrombocytopenia.