Abstract

Immunologic Heparin-induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT Type II) results from heparin exposure in any form, and can result in major intravascular thrombotic events, ischemia, and death. Type II HIT occurs in approximately 1 to 3% of patients receiving heparin and can occur at any dose or via any route of administration, making it a potentially serious complication of routine central venous access device (CVAD) maintenance with heparin flush locking techniques. A review of the clinical literature reveals largely anecdotal information implicating the role of heparin flush solutions in its development. Further study is needed to more specifically identify the likelihood of developing HIT from vascular access device related causes.