Guidelines on oral anticoagulation: second edition

Article Abstract:

Oral anticoagulant drugs are prescribed to dissolve clots that form in blood vessels (thrombosis), thereby cutting off blood supply. This is the second issuance of guidelines on oral anticoagulation. The first set was issued in 1984. These revisions were necessitated by changes in the international system for the standardization of prothrombin time (a test of clotting time) in anticoagulant control, based on International Normalized Ratios (INR). Properties and indicated uses of anticoagulants listed in the British National Formulary are given. Specific dose schedules, contraindications for anticoagulant therapy, therapeutic ranges, side effects, and adverse effects are described. Pathological conditions and medications possessing potentiating effects and antagonistic drugs are listed. Recommendations for concomitant drug treatment are indicated. Methods for the reversal of the effects of oral anticoagulant therapy are defined. Finally, laboratory methods and instrumentation for the measurement and control of prothrombin times are described. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Standards

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Guidelines on the investigation and management of thrombophilia

Article Abstract:

The Hemostasis and Thrombosis Task Force of the British Society for Hematology has developed guidelines for treating a condition they have agreed to call 'thrombophilia', the familial or acquired predisposition to thrombosis, a disorder of the hemostatic mechanism which leads to the formation or presence of a thrombus, or clot, in a blood vessel. These clots may cause injury to the organs or tissue supplied by that vessel, usually by blocking blood supply. Thrombosis more commonly occurs in advanced age, and in association with risk factors such as trauma, pregnancy, malignancy or immobilization. Thrombosis may occur in the younger patient without a clear-cut risk factor in evidence. The mechanisms of thrombosis, either known or hypothesized, are described. Persons with confirmed thrombophilia may remain asymptomatic. The disorders associated with inherited thrombophilia and acquired thrombophilia are defined and briefly described. Procedures for the screening for thrombophilia and the management of patients so identified, are outlined. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Development and progression, Genetic aspects, Thrombosis, Blood circulation disorders, Vascular diseases

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A standardized weight-based heparin protocol: improving clinical outcomes

Article Abstract:

Providing patients with individualized heparin therapy determined by a standardized protocol creates effective anticoagulation, shorter lengths of stay, and lower medical costs. A 3-year study comparing traditional therapy with therapy based on patients' weights showed the weight-based protocol produced better clinical outcomes and lower medical costs. This protocol effectively reduced variations in patient care.

Care and treatment, Pulmonary embolism, Thrombosis, Deep vein, Deep vein thrombosis, Heparin

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