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If HIT/HITT occurs, how many days after heparin therapy do complications typically arise?

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Final answer:

Complications from HIT or HITT usually arise 5 to 14 days after starting heparin therapy, earlier if there's previous exposure to heparin. Close monitoring for signs of thrombocytopenia is crucial.

Step-by-step explanation:

Complications from Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) or Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (HITT) can occur within 5 to 14 days after starting heparin therapy. However, it can take as few as 5 days if the patient had previous exposure to heparin.

HIT/HITT is a prothrombotic disorder meaning it can cause unwanted clotting, which is the opposite of the intended therapeutic effect of heparin therapy. The complications include deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, myocardial infarction, skin lesions at the injection site, and in severe cases, limb gangrene.

Patients undergoing heparin therapy should be monitored closely for signs of thrombocytopenia and, should symptoms of HIT/HITT appear, alternative anticoagulation should be administered, and heparin must be discontinued immediately.

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