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Review
. 2025 Jan 24;14(3):762.
doi: 10.3390/jcm14030762.

Hypercoagulability in Tuberculosis: Pathophysiological Mechanisms, Associated Risks, and Advances in Management-A Narrative Review

Denisa Maria Mitroi  1 , Mara Amalia Balteanu  2 , Ramona Cioboata  3 , Silviu Gabriel Vlasceanu  4 , Ovidiu Mircea Zlatian  5 , Oana Maria Catana  1 , Adina Andreea Mirea  6 , Gabriel Florin Razvan Mogos  7 , Ionela Rotaru  8 , Viorel Biciusca  3
Affiliations
Review

Hypercoagulability in Tuberculosis: Pathophysiological Mechanisms, Associated Risks, and Advances in Management-A Narrative Review

Denisa Maria Mitroi et al. J Clin Med. .

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) induces a hypercoagulable state characterized by systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and alterations in the coagulation and fibrinolytic pathways. This review explores the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying hypercoagulability in TB, including increased pro-inflammatory cytokine release, endothelial damage, platelet activation, and reduced anticoagulant and fibrinolytic activity. These factors contribute to an elevated risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), which complicate TB prognosis and treatment. The potential role of adjunctive anti-inflammatory therapies, such as vitamin D, NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and anti-platelet agents, is highlighted as a strategy to mitigate systemic inflammation and reduce thrombotic risks in patients with TB. The challenges of anticoagulation therapy, particularly in managing the interactions between anti-TB medications and traditional anticoagulants, are discussed, along with the potential of novel oral anticoagulants (NOAs) as alternatives. We also address therapy of hypercoagulability in TB within resource-limited settings which requires low-cost diagnostics, accessible anticoagulation options, adjunctive therapies, and preventive strategies integrated into existing healthcare systems. Effective risk stratification and individualized management strategies are vital for reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with thrombotic complications in TB.

Keywords: disease management; hypercoagulability; tuberculosis.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Pathophysiological mechanisms and risk factors of hypercoagulability in tuberculosis. HIF-1: hypoxia-inducible factor 1; human IL-1: interleukin 1; IL-6: interleukin 2; IL-12: interleukin 6; IFN- γ: interferon-gamma; TF: tissue factor; TNF-α: tumor necrosis factor α; tPA: tissue plasminogen activator.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Clinical implications and management of hypercoagulability in tuberculosis.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Management of hypercoagulability state in tuberculosis.
Figure 4
Figure 4
The efficacy, side effects, and feasibility of anticoagulation strategies in tuberculosis.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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