Clinical Case Database / Category: Patient Management

Anticoagulation, adverse effects and antidotes

Publication details

Dr Wenchee Siow, Dr Fatts Chowdhury, Dr Gavin Cho
Foundation Years Journal, volume 9, issue 3, p.38 (123Doc Education, London, March 2015)

Abstract

Warfarin has been the most commonly prescribed oral anticoagulant for many years until the recent introduction of the novel anticoagulants such as Dabigatran and Rivaroxaban. The presence of a mechanical heart valve is an indication for anticoagulation. The main side effect of warfarin is bleeding, with intracerebral haemorrhage being one of the most serious bleeding risk requiring immediate reversal management. This patient had immediate warfarin reversal but developed pulmonary emboli as a result. This case highlights the difficulties managing a patient with concurrent haemorrhage and thrombosis.

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Authors

Dr Wenchee Siow

Haematology ST7, Northwick Park Hospital,
Watford Road, Harrow, Middlesex, HA1 3UJ.
w.siow@nhs.net

Dr Fatts Chowdhury

Consultant Haematologist, Northwick Park Hospital
Watford Road, Harrow, Middlesex, HA1 3UJ.
fatts.Chowdhury@nhs.net

Dr Gavin Cho (Corresponding author)

Consultant Haematologist, Northwick Park Hospital
Watford Road, Harrow, Middlesex, HA1 3UJ.
gavin.cho@nhs.net

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